Steel Insights’ August Cover Story turns the spotlight on the sponge iron industry. India is the largest sponge iron producer in the world, contributing 30% to the global pool. But, from 2009 onwards, there has been stagnation due to de-acceleration in steel demand, restricted availability of iron ore, steam coal and environmental issues. The industry wants the government to push for reforms. Special Feature focuses on Korean steel biggie POSCO and how it is eyeing a downstream presence after being thwarted in plans for a mega steel plant in Odisha. Can India meet its iron ore requirement as mining auctions start? Special Feature explores the scenario against the backdrop of the amended MMDR Act and impending mineral auctions. Interview features KIOCL CMD Malay Chatterjee. The company has drawn up a bounce-back blueprint that includes acquisition of captive mines, a pellet plant in tie-up with Bokaro Steel Plant, contracts with NMDC and OMC, MoUs with APMDC and RINL for mineral exploration and exploitation, diversification into solar energy, e-commerce and eco-tourism. Also watch out for our regular sections on coking coal prices, ferro alloys and corporates.