State Government Forms Task Force to Attract Mega Steel Plant Investors to Keonjhar

Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi Leads Initiative to Boost Industrial Development

The state government has announced the formation of a task force aimed at attracting investors to establish mega steel plants in Keonjhar district, the home district of Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi. This decision was made following a comprehensive review of the state's industrial landscape and employment potential by the chief minister.

Task Force Leadership and Objectives

The newly formed task force will be led by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. The primary objective is to leverage Keonjhar's abundant mineral resources and existing infrastructure to entice significant investments in the steel industry. Despite the district's rich mineral deposits, it remains underdeveloped and lacks major industrial establishments.

Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that Keonjhar possesses all the necessary infrastructure and raw materials, including power and water, to support mega steel plants. He urged the Industries Department to intensify their efforts in identifying and attracting potential investors.

Historical Context and Current Efforts

The review highlighted the historical context of industrial initiatives in Keonjhar. In 2006, ArcelorMittal had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the state government to set up a 12 million tonne integrated steel plant in the district. However, the project was abandoned in 2013 due to significant external delays.

Industry Principal Secretary Hemant Sharma provided an update on the current industrial situation in the state. He reported that the government has received approximately 989 proposals for setting up industries, with 674 projects having obtained single window clearances. Additionally, land has been allocated to 352 industries, and 183 projects are at various stages of progress. Notably, 74 industries have already commenced operations.

Sharma also informed the meeting that the state has received 12 proposals for foreign direct investment (FDI) and is actively working to finalize 41 significant investment proposals.

Future Industrial and Employment Goals

Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the state's substantial potential for industrial growth. He stressed the need for concerted efforts to create a conducive environment for investors, ensuring timely support for project implementation. The state government has set an ambitious target to create 3.5 lakh employment opportunities over the next five years.

Majhi also pointed out the importance of promoting investment in labor-intensive sectors such as textiles and food processing, which can significantly contribute to employment generation.

Conclusion

The formation of the task force marks a strategic move by the state government to harness Keonjhar's mineral wealth and drive industrial development in the region. By creating an investor-friendly environment and providing necessary support, the state aims to transform Keonjhar into a hub for mega steel plants, boosting both local and state economies.

The review meeting, attended by Industries Minister Sampad Swain, underscores the government's commitment to fostering industrial growth and employment opportunities, paving the way for a prosperous future for Keonjhar and the entire state.