New Delhi: India could see hydrogen replace natural gas in India, emerging as a viable alternative within the next five to ten years. This is according to Union Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik. Speaking at the CII Steel Summit 2025, Poundrik said hydrogen’s falling cost could make it central to India’s decarbonisation. It also supports global competitiveness goals.
“The DRI plus Hydrogen route offers a promising pathway for green steel production,” he said, noting that hydrogen adoption could accelerate India’s transition toward cleaner steelmaking. He added that the nation’s growing defence, automotive, and power sectors are driving strong demand for high-grade and sustainable steel.
Poundrik reaffirmed India’s target of achieving 500 million tonnes of steelmaking capacity by 2047, in line with the Viksit Bharat vision, where hydrogen replaces natural gas in various processes.
“We’re adding around 100 million tonnes every five to seven years, making India a global leader in sustainable steel production,” he stated.
The Steel Secretary emphasised the contribution of 2,200 small and medium enterprises. These enterprises produce nearly half of India’s steel output. He said the government is coordinating with the Ministry of Coal to boost domestic coking coal production. This will ensure self-reliance in raw materials. Poundrik also underlined that Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are being enforced to maintain uniform standards. This enforcement prevents substandard imports.
Industry leaders including Koushik Chatterjee of Tata Steel and Jayant Acharya of JSW Steel echoed his views. They highlighted that steel underpins India’s infrastructure, manufacturing, and energy sectors. They believe hydrogen could replace natural gas in India to play a critical role in shaping a sustainable, modern economy.
–IANS
