Bhubaneswar, Nov 19: Union Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in Bhubaneswar today, placing major emphasis on expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP).
The meeting, also attended by Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram and senior officials from both the Centre and the State, centered on strengthening and expanding one of India’s most important steel facilities.
The Steel Minister described the discussions as fruitful as they discussed the functioning of Rourkela Steel Plant and the planned expansion of RSP.
They also discussed key issues related to enhancing steel and mining production in Odisha.
The Chief Minister assured full support of the state government in collective efforts to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of achieving 300 MT steel capacity by 2030.
Chief Minister Majhi reiterated the State Government’s strong support for the RSP’s expansion.
Majhi emphasized that growth of the RSP is not only vital for Odisha’s overall economic development but will also create substantial employment opportunities for local communities. At the same time, the Chief Minister assured that all concerns of affected residents will be addressed, and land acquisition—where necessary—will take place only based on community consent.
In line with the decisions taken at the meeting, a high-level committee chaired by an Additional Chief Secretary–rank officer will be formed. This committee will engage with local people and work to resolve all pending issues through dialogue.