Bhubaneswar: Captains of Steel Industry led by Indian Steel Association(ISA) President Naveen Jindal called on Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan today to explore avenues for boosting steel production within the state and enhancing the necessary infrastructure.
Chief Minister Shri Majhi outlined Odisha’s ambitious vision of achieving a prosperous state by 2036 and becoming a pivotal growth engine for a developed India by 2047. PS to CM, Manoj Kumar Sahu was present during the meeting.
He emphasized the crucial role of the mining and steel sectors in realizing this goal. Assuring the delegation of the state government’s commitment, the Chief Minister stated that providing raw materials and essential facilities to companies establishing operations in Odisha is a priority. He affirmed that all necessary support would be extended to steel companies following due deliberations and in accordance with established regulations.
Discussions during the meeting highlighted the nation’s current steel production capacity of 165 million tons per annum, with a significant target of reaching 500 million tons by 2047. Recognizing Odisha’s existing and future prominence in augmenting national steel output, the discussions centered on streamlining the process for steel companies to access iron ore and secure other related facilities.
A key focus of the meeting was the auctioning of additional iron ore mines and expediting the commencement of mining operations in already auctioned blocks. Sources indicate that approximately 30 mines are slated for auction this year. Furthermore, deliberations addressed mechanisms for ensuring a convenient supply of iron ore to steel companies through the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC).
The high-level meeting witnessed the presence of Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Additional Chief Secretary, Steel and Mines, Surendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, Hemant Sharma, and Secretaries from other relevant government departments, underscoring the state’s commitment to fostering growth in the steel sector.