Bhubaneswar, November 4: Odisha Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain on Monday refuted allegations that the proposed 24 MTPA steel plant by ArcelorMittal-Nippon Steel is shifting from Odisha to Andhra Pradesh.
Addressing the criticisms from opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leaders, Swain assured that the plant will remain in Odisha and that the government has been in active discussions to ensure the project’s continuation.
He said “The BJD is misleading the people of Odisha,” stressing that ArcelorMittal, a global leader in steel manufacturing, has committed to expanding in the state. He added that BJD leaders remained silent when the company established a large steel facility in Hazira, Gujarat, despite an initial memorandum of understanding with Odisha.
Swain explained that since the BJP government came to power in Odisha, work on the project has accelerated. Regular review meetings have been held with company officials, and around 200 employees, including Indian and Japanese nationals, are engaged in the project. The minister noted that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi recently met with top ArcelorMittal executives in Mumbai to reinforce the state’s commitment to the venture.
Further, Swain stated that ArcelorMittal is providing skill training to 60 diploma holders from the Marshaghai block in Kendrapara, preparing local talent for employment within the plant.
BJD leader Pratap Jena previously accused the current government of failing to retain the project, alleging that former CM Naveen Patnaik had initiated the discussions that led to the steel plant deal. Jena criticized the government, claiming the project’s shift to Andhra Pradesh was a sign of the state’s diminishing industrial appeal.
Swain countered by asserting that industries that left during the previous government’s tenure are now showing renewed interest in Odisha, attributing this change to proactive efforts by the current administration to foster a more business-friendly environment.
