Keonjhar: A major step forward for industrial progress in Eastern India has been taken as Odisha's Keonjhar district is set to host the state's second-largest steel plant. The massive project, valued at approximately Rs 50,000 crore, promises to transform the region's economy and create a wealth of new jobs. 
Odisha's Keonjhar Gets Rs 50,000 Cr Steel Plant Boost | Jobs & Growth


The announcement has generated widespread excitement and a sense of relief among local residents and community leaders. For decades, the establishment of a large-scale steel plant stood as one of the district's most urgent and long-standing demands.

Fulfillment of a Long-Held Dream

The project moved from a dream to reality after several local organizations and citizen forums met with the new Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, at the State Guest House. During the meeting, the groups expressed their deep gratitude to the state government and the central leadership for approving the project.
Chief Minister Majhi addressed the gathering, confirming the government's commitment. He stated that setting up a major steel facility in Keonjhar was one of the oldest and biggest demands of the local population. He credited the "double-engine government" – a term referring to the same party being in power at both the state and central levels – for turning this vision into a tangible project. With strong support from the Union government, one of the world's largest steel-producing companies has now agreed to establish the plant in the mineral-rich district.

Widespread Optimism for Economic Transformation

Local residents and public representatives are viewing the project as a game-changer for Keonjhar and its neighboring areas. They predict the plant will spur massive industrial development, boost ancillary businesses, and fundamentally improve the economic landscape of the entire region.
Elected officials from the area shared their enthusiastic reactions. Patna MLA Akhila Chandra Naik said, "The long wait is finally ending. We feel delighted that Keonjhar will get a steel plant worth Rs 50,000 crore under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Majhi."
Echoing this sentiment, Telkoi MLA Fakir Mohan Naik remarked, "The long-standing wish of Keonjhar is now going to be fulfilled. I thank our Chief Minister. A previous attempt by a major company did not materialize under the last government, but now we are successfully moving forward."
The overwhelming feeling in Keonjhar is one of optimism. The community believes this investment will unlock new opportunities for the youth, lead to skill development, and pave the way for a more prosperous future, firmly placing the district on the national industrial map.