AM/NS India Remains Committed to Proposed Mega Steel Project in Odisha, Says Minister

ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) is not relocating its planned mega steel plant from Odisha, according to Odisha Industries Minister Sampad Swain. Swain accused the opposition BJD of spreading misinformation about the project's relocation. He assured that AM/NS India remains committed to the state, with two review meetings confirming the company's interest. Approximately 200 officials from India and Japan are actively involved in the Odisha project.

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The minister highlighted that AM/NS India is providing skill training to 60 diploma engineers from Kendrapara district for future engagement in the project. He emphasised that AM/NS India's plans to establish another project elsewhere do not indicate a withdrawal from Odisha. The company has also announced a major 7 MTPA steel plant in Paradip, alongside efforts to set up the proposed Kendrapara project.

AM/NS India's Commitment and Expansion Plans

AM/NS India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Odisha government to develop a 24 MTPA greenfield mega steel facility in Kendrapara district. This investment, amounting to Rs 1.02 lakh crore, will surpass POSCO's 23 MTPA steel mill in South Korea, making it the largest globally. The company is exploring accelerated growth opportunities while maintaining its existing project plans.

A senior executive from AM/NS India confirmed that there are no intentions to abandon the Kendrapara project. The company is considering various investment opportunities across different locations to expand its business further. The necessary formalities for the Kendrapara project are at various stages of government approvals.

Political Reactions and Company Statements

Former Odisha minister and senior BJD leader Pratap Jena expressed concerns over the project's potential move to Andhra Pradesh. Jena criticised the current state government for inefficiency, claiming it led to the project's shift. He noted that former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had previously engaged with Nippon's chairman to establish the plant in Kendrapara.

In response, AM/NS India released a statement affirming its commitment to exploring growth opportunities aligned with its strategic goals. The company clarified that discussions with state governments are ongoing but do not alter their current project plans in Odisha.

The Industries Minister also mentioned that several companies, which had previously abandoned projects during the BJD regime, are now returning under the BJP government. This indicates a positive shift in the state's industrial landscape, attracting renewed interest from major corporations like AM/NS India.

The proposed steel plant in Kendrapara was expected to generate significant revenue and employment opportunities for thousands of youths in Odisha. Despite political claims, AM/NS India's commitment suggests continued progress towards achieving these economic benefits for the state.