Question

Give reasons for the following.

Iron and steel industry is called the ‘Basic’ or ‘Key’ industry.

Answer 1

Iron and steel industry is called the ‘Basic’ or ‘Key’ industry because:

1. It provides raw materials such as steel and iron for many other downstream industries.
2. It forms the basis for the development of heavy engineering, construction, transport, and machinery sectors.
3. The economic and industrial progress of a country largely depends on its iron and steel production capacity.
4. It supplies essential materials for manufacturing agricultural tools and machinery like tractors, plows, and harvesters.
5. It drives infrastructural growth by providing necessary steel for building bridges, dams, high-rise buildings, and railway tracks.
   
6. It is crucial for national defence and security by supplying raw materials to manufacture warships, tanks, and defence equipment.