New Delhi, Aug. 26 -- India's steel industry is witnessing a strong growth cycle, with demand expected to rise by 8.5-9.5 per cent in FY26, higher than the decade-long average growth rate of 7 per cent.

According to the Crisil SME Tracker, this surge is being driven mainly by infrastructure and construction activity.

Production of long steel saw an 8.7 per cent year-on-year increase in the first quarter of FY26, with mid-sized and small mills playing a key role by contributing 72.4 per cent of the output.

Analysts suggest that this positive trend is likely to continue, supported by a decline in imports and steady demand across key sectors.

Crisil estimates that crude steel production could record a 10-12 per cent year-on-year growth t...