Odisha Post reports that Arcelor Mittal Nippon Steel has firmly denied allegations of withdrawing from Odisha, confirming its commitment to establishing a 24 MTPA steel plant in Kendrapara. The clarification comes amid political controversy sparked by claims from the Biju Janata Dal party regarding the project's supposed relocation to Andhra Pradesh.
A senior AMNS official has emphasized that the Kendrapara project remains active, currently progressing through various governmental approval stages. The company's expansion plans in Odisha extend beyond Kendrapara, with an additional steel plant planned for Paradip, demonstrating a substantial commitment to the state's industrial development.
The political discourse intensified when BJD leader Pratap Jena expressed concerns about the project's alleged migration to Andhra Pradesh. Jena highlighted that former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had personally visited Japan for discussions with Nippon's chairman, aiming to secure what would have been the state's largest steel plant, potentially generating over 100,000 jobs.
Industries Minister Sampad Swain has strongly countered these claims, accusing BJD leaders of misleading the public. He emphasized that AMNS, as a major industrial player, maintains multiple steel plants across India, including a facility in Gujarat established after signing the Memorandum of Understanding with Odisha. The minister's statements reflect the current government's efforts to accelerate industrial development in the state.
The government's commitment to the project is evidenced by recent developments, including two review meetings with company officials and ongoing discussions between the Chief Minister and AMNS representatives in Mumbai. Furthermore, practical steps toward project implementation are already underway, with training programs initiated for 60 diploma holders from Marshaghai, the proposed plant location.
Minister Swain has positioned these developments within a broader context of industrial revival in Odisha, suggesting that companies previously hesitant to invest are now showing renewed interest under the current administration. This represents a shift from what he characterizes as procedural delays under the previous government.
