UPSC CSE Prelims 2015
Coking coal is a critical raw material for steel production, particularly through the blast furnace method. India possesses limited reserves of high-grade coking coal suitable for metallurgical purposes. Consequently, the Indian steel industry heavily relies on imports, primarily from countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States, to meet its requirements. A significant portion of India's steel output depends on imported coking coal.
Saltpetre (potassium nitrate) is historically associated with the production of gunpowder and explosives, and is also used as a fertilizer. It is not a primary raw material required for steel manufacturing.
Rock phosphate is a key raw material in the production of phosphatic fertilizers and phosphoric acid. It does not play a role in the steel production process.
Given that only coking coal among the listed options is essential for India's steel production industry, option (D) is incorrect.