(TOI)
CM Mohan Charan Majhi held a high-level meeting with representatives of the Indian Steel Association (ISA) here on Thursday. The discussions focused on increasing the availability of iron ore and enhancing infrastructure to support steel companies in the state.
Majhi reiterated the govt’s commitment to making Odisha a prosperous state by 2036 and a key contributor to a developed India by 2047. “Mining and steel will be the pillars of Odisha’s economic growth. The govt is committed to ensuring a smooth supply of raw materials and necessary facilities to companies investing in Odisha,” said Majhi, assuring that the govt would extend all possible support.
India currently produces 165 million tonnes of steel annually with a national target to ramp this up to 500 million tonnes by 2047. Odisha, being rich in mineral resources, is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving this target.
The meeting discussed expediting the auction of iron ore blocks, with nearly 30 mines expected to be auctioned this year. Officials also discussed the need for timely commencement of mining operations from auctioned sites. The role of Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) in efficiently supplying iron ore to steel companies was also reviewed.
The steel industry welcomed the proactive approach of the state govt and expressed hope for continued collaboration to unlock Odisha’s full potential as a steel manufacturing hub.
The delegation was led by chairman of ISA Naveen Jindal. Top state officials, including chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, additional chief secretary of steel and mines Surendra Kumar, additional chief secretary of industries Hemant Sharma, and secretaries of relevant departments attended the meeting.
