Historic Boost to Keonjhar: Mega Steel Plant Cleared

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday announced that Odisha’s second largest steel plant will be set up in Keonjhar district, marking a major milestone in the state’s industrial growth. The mega facility will be developed in the mineral-rich Patna area through a partnership between global steel giant POSCO and India’s leading steelmaker JSW Steel.

The announcement followed a meeting with citizens’ groups, social organisations, and local representatives at the State Guest House in Bhubaneswar. Leaders, including Patna MLA Akhil Naik and Telkoi MLA Fakir Naik, thanked the Chief Minister for fulfilling the region’s long-pending demand.

“The people of Keonjhar have been pressing for a steel plant for many years. Previous governments ignored this demand. Our government, with support from the Centre, has taken proactive steps to make it a reality,” Majhi said.

He added that the project would transform Patna into a “mega city like Rourkela,” generating large-scale employment and boosting infrastructure in the district.

The move follows a recent non-binding Heads of Agreement signed between JSW Steel and POSCO Group to explore the establishment of a six million tonnes per annum (MTPA) integrated steel plant in India, with Keonjhar identified as the preferred site.

The proposed plant is expected to strengthen Odisha’s position as India’s leading steel-producing state while creating opportunities for ancillary industries. Officials believe it will spur investments in logistics, housing, and services, benefiting both the local economy and the state as a whole.