ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel’s proposed steel plant in Odisha’s Kendrapara district is seeing renewed optimism after a critical notification was issued by the state’s Revenue Department. This development effectively halts land transactions in the Badatubi mouza area, creating a clear path for land acquisition needed for the project. The ₹38,000-crore plant, which requires 383 acres of land, faced initial uncertainty after AMNS announced a similar project in Andhra Pradesh, leading to concerns about the future of the Kendrapara initiative. However, with the recent move, prospects for the project have been significantly strengthened, revitalizing hopes of industrial growth in the region.
The steel plant is poised to be a major investment for the region, both in terms of infrastructure and employment. Local stakeholders, including community leaders, have expressed support for the project, as long as they are fairly compensated for the land. Tushar Kant Sarddar, a former Sarpanch (village head), voiced the local sentiment, stating, “We are ready to part with land if compensated fairly. This project promises jobs and growth.” The local community’s backing is crucial for the project, and their support signals a positive environment for the plant’s development, which could lead to increased prosperity in the area.
District authorities have also accelerated their efforts to push the project forward. Public hearings and expert committee reviews have been completed, ensuring that all procedural and environmental guidelines are followed. Kendrapara’s Additional District Magistrate, Nilu Mohapatra, emphasized the significance of the notification, stating that it marks a crucial step forward in the steel plant’s development. The notification not only facilitates the land acquisition process but also helps streamline the efforts of the state government and other agencies involved in the project.
Odisha’s government has been actively promoting industrial growth in the state, with this steel plant being one of the key projects that align with its broader economic development goals. Industries Minister Sampad Swain has been vocal about the state's commitment to the project, highlighting the ongoing work to improve the region's infrastructure. Roads, electricity, and even a proposed new railway line are part of the larger strategy to support the plant’s development. These infrastructure upgrades will not only help facilitate the steel plant but also improve connectivity and logistics for future industrial ventures in the area.
In a significant move, 100 acres in Kharnasi village have already been transferred to the Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) in line with the project’s requirements. This land transfer followed a series of public consultations, ensuring transparency and community involvement in the process. Additionally, the government is in the process of acquiring a total of 712.52 acres across the Mahakalpada tehsil, which includes several villages. These efforts demonstrate the state government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project and its potential to benefit local communities.
Local political support for the steel plant has been strong. Durga Prasad Nayak, the Member of Legislative Assembly for the area, praised the community’s backing of the plant. He stressed that the steel plant would be a significant source of employment and economic growth for the Kendrapara district. With the region’s industrial infrastructure gradually taking shape, the steel plant is expected to drive substantial economic benefits, including job creation in construction, manufacturing, and allied sectors.
While the land acquisition process is progressing smoothly, the project still requires several environmental clearances before construction can begin. These clearances are a standard part of large-scale industrial projects and are expected to be addressed in due course. Once the environmental and regulatory hurdles are cleared, the plant’s construction will move into full swing, marking the beginning of a transformative phase for the region’s industrial landscape.
The AMNS steel plant in Odisha presents a promising opportunity for the region. With its potential to create thousands of jobs, boost the local economy, and serve as a catalyst for further industrial development, the project is seen as a vital part of Odisha's ongoing efforts to become a leading industrial hub in India. The state’s proactive approach to facilitating infrastructure improvements and supporting the acquisition of land for the project indicates a strong commitment to fostering a favorable investment climate.
