Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed optimism about finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a “mega” steel plant in Keonjhar district during the ‘Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha’ conclave, slated to be held in Bhubaneswar on January 28-29.
The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging Keonjhar’s mineral wealth while prioritizing infrastructure and economic development in the region.
Unlocking Keonjhar’s Industrial Potential
During his three-day visit to Keonjhar, CM Majhi highlighted the district’s vast reserves of iron, manganese, chromite, and dolomite, which make it a prime location for industrial investment. “I assure the people of Keonjhar that the steel plant will be established very soon,” the Chief Minister stated, emphasizing his administration’s determination to unlock the region’s economic potential through industrial growth.
Majhi recalled his earlier announcement about a collaboration between JSW Group and South Korea’s POSCO to establish a greenfield steel facility in Keonjhar. He acknowledged challenges faced by previous proposals, such as the shelved 12 MTPA ArcelorMittal project under the BJD government, but reiterated his commitment to seeing this new venture succeed.
Commitment to Regional Development
In addition to announcing plans for the steel plant, Majhi outlined his broader vision for Keonjhar’s development. Key focus areas include enhancing road connectivity, improving access to clean drinking water, and upgrading health and education infrastructure to ensure sustainable growth for the district.
The ‘Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha’ conclave is expected to draw significant investor interest, with the proposed steel plant standing out as a landmark project for both Keonjhar and Odisha’s industrial landscape.
