Bokaro: In a significant stride towards self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a major technological breakthrough with the development of a special 28MnB5 grade manganese-boron (Mn-B) steel — a first-of-its-kind innovation within SAIL, tailor-made for the agricultural machinery sector.
Known for its high-quality steel used in railways, defence, shipbuilding, and consumer goods, BSL has now expanded its expertise to support India’s growing agricultural and industrial base. The new Mn-B steel aims to make farm equipment stronger, more durable, and entirely homegrown, aligning with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
A senior BSL official said,
“This innovation is not just about producing better steel — it’s about strengthening the backbone of rural India. Our 28MnB5 grade steel gives Indian agriculture the edge it deserves.”
The newly developed steel combines high strength, hardness, and superior wear resistance, making it ideal for heavy-duty farm implements such as ploughshares, cultivator blades, disc harrows, shovels, and excavator teeth, which undergo extreme stress and abrasion. Its unique blend of medium carbon, manganese, boron, and chromium ensures outstanding durability and performance.
BSL has already supplied over 60,000 tonnes of this innovative steel and is ramping up production to 80,000 tonnes annually. This breakthrough is expected to open new market avenues in the agricultural and earth-moving equipment sectors, significantly reducing India’s dependence on imported materials while empowering farmers with superior domestic alternatives.
This achievement adds another milestone to BSL’s expanding product portfolio, which already includes warship-grade steel (DMR-249A), solar application steel, and grain silo steel.
With this innovation, Bokaro Steel Plant continues to embody the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat, driving India’s march toward industrial strength and agricultural resilience through innovation, technology, and national commitment.
