<h1>India Becomes Fourth-Largest Crude Steel Producer in 2012, Boosts Production, Raises Export Duties to Conserve Resources.</h1> India's steel sector saw significant growth and achievements in 2012, becoming the fourth-largest crude steel producer globally and maintaining its lead in Direct Reduced Iron production. The Ministry of Steel signed 301 MoUs for a planned capacity of 486.66 million tonnes. Crude steel production increased from 51.17 mtpa in 2005-06 to 89.29 mtpa in 2011-12. Export duties on iron ore and chrome ore were raised to conserve resources. Major public sector undertakings like SAIL and RINL undertook expansion and modernization projects. The Ministry emphasized research and development, corporate social responsibility, and expanding the steel distribution network.