Introduction to ‘Brand India’ for Steel Products

The ‘Brand India’ tag is a new initiative by the Indian government to enhance the credibility of steel products manufactured in India under strict quality control norms.

• The ‘Brand India’ tag will be awarded to products that meet the 13 sector-specific benchmarks formulated by the government and industry.
• These benchmarks encompass various aspects of the production process, including location, product design, and quality standards for steel products.
• The initiative is in sync with the Atmanirbhar Bharat program and aims to bolster the domestic manufacturing sector.
• The Quality Council of India (QCI) is playing a pivotal role in facilitating the inclusion of steel manufacturers in the ‘Brand India’ tag initiative.
• Both state-owned SAIL and private sector producer Jindal Stainless Ltd are set to launch a pilot to manufacture world-class steel products.
• The government plans to extend an invitation to all local steel manufacturers to be a part of this initiative and promote ‘Brand India’ steel in both domestic and global markets.
• The steel ministry is actively engaging with stakeholders to devise a strategy to transition Indian steel towards low-carbon production and decarbonize it.
• A task force has been set up to draft actionable points for the 13 key components identified for the low-carbon transition of the steel sector.

Advantages of ‘Brand India’ Labelling for Steel Products

• Enhances the credibility of Indian-made steel products: The ‘Brand India’ tag initiative will introduce a level of standardization and quality control that will help elevate the reputation of Indian-made steel products, both domestically and internationally.
• Promotes domestic manufacturing: The initiative aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat program , which aims to promote self-reliance and domestic manufacturing. The ‘Brand India’ tag for steel products could aid Indian manufacturers in better competing with their international counterparts.
• Establishes new credibility and quality benchmarks: Products that meet the 13 sector-specific benchmarks set by the government and industry to receive the ‘Brand India’ tag will be of high quality. This could attract more customers and investors to the Indian steel industry.
• Promotes environmental sustainability: The steel ministry is collaborating with stakeholders to devise a strategy to transition Indian steel towards low-carbon production and decarbonize it. This could help position Indian steel producers as global leaders in the fight against climate change.
• Supports infrastructure development: The government aims to strengthen the steel sector to meet the rapidly growing domestic demand and facilitate infrastructure development. The ‘Brand India’ tag for steel products could help ensure a steady supply of high-quality steel for infrastructure projects across India.
• Creates employment opportunities: As the domestic steel industry becomes stronger and more competitive, it could create employment opportunities across the value chain, from production to sales and marketing.
• Improves India’s trade balance: By promoting high-quality Indian-made steel products, the ‘Brand India’ tag initiative could help improve India’s trade balance and reduce its reliance on imported steel.

Conclusion: The launch of the ‘Brand India’ tag for steel products in India could enhance the reputation of Indian-made products, promote domestic manufacturing, support environmental sustainability, and aid infrastructure development.

‘Brand India’ Tag for Steel Products [UPSC Notes]:-