How are integrated steel plants different from mini steel plants? What problems does the industry face? What recent developments have led to a rise in the production capacity?

Differences between integrated steel plants and mini steel plants: 

Mini steel plants are smaller, have electric furnaces, use steel scrap and sponge iron. They have re-rollers that use steel ingots as well. They produce mild and alloy steel of given specifications.

An integrated steel plant is large, handles everything in one complex – from putting together raw material to steel making, rolling and shaping.

The following problems are being faced by iron and steel industry:

(a) High costs and limited availability of coking coal

(b) Lower productivity of labour

(c) Irregular supply of energy 

(d) Poor infrastructure.

Recent Developments: 

Liberalisation and Foreign Direct Investment have given a boost to the industry with the efforts of private entrepreneurs.