India’s Ministry of Steel has requested 150 billion rupees (approximately $1.74 billion) from the federal budget to incentivise mills to produce low-carbon steel, according to two government sources familiar with the matter.

As the world’s second-largest steel producer after China, India is actively working on a green steel policy aimed at reducing emissions in steel production. This initiative forms part of the country's broader efforts to meet its net-zero target by 2070, as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The steel ministry plans to use the funds to offer incentives that encourage emissions reduction, improve research and development, increase raw material efficiency, and incentivise banks to offer lower interest rates on renewable energy loans. These details were shared by the sources, who requested anonymity as the discussions are private.

The steel ministry did not respond to an email seeking comment.

Once the funds are allocated, the ministry will submit the proposal for the cabinet’s approval. In December, the government defined ‘green steel’ as steel produced with emissions lower than 2.2 metric tons of CO2 per tonne of finished steel.

The proposed incentives would remain in place until 2030, with green steel potentially being used in government projects.

India’s steel production generates 2.55 metric tons of carbon dioxide per tonne of crude steel, 38% higher than the global average of 1.85 tons, according to Global Energy Monitor.