Union Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday launched 'Mission Purvodaya' which aims at accelerated development of eastern India through integrated steel hub.
The eastern belt has the potential to add more than 75 per cent of the country's incremental steel capacity envisioned by the National Steel Policy, he said adding it is expected that out of the 300 million tonne capacity by 2030-31, over 200 million tonne can come from this region alone.
The mission will drive India's march towards USD 5 trillion economy set by the government, the minister said at a launch event in Kolkata, according to an official statement.
Stating that eastern India is a land of infinite opportunities, Pradhan said, "Despite being endowed with natural resources, this region has lagged behind in socio-economic development as compared to some other parts of the country."