Vedanta Seeks Odisha Govt’s Support to Fast-Track $20-Billion Aluminium Project
Anil Agarwal writes to CM Mohan Majhi, calls project a ‘nation-building exercise’
Bhubaneswar : Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal has reached out to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, seeking the state government’s support to expedite clearances and accelerate the implementation of the company’s massive USD 20-billion aluminium project — one of the largest industrial investments in India.
In a letter addressed to the chief minister, Agarwal highlighted that Vedanta is advancing with a 30 lakh tonne per annum aluminium project that will transform Odisha’s industrial landscape while generating large-scale employment and economic growth. The conglomerate has already committed an investment of Rs 1.27 lakh crore for setting up a 3 million tonne per annum (MTPA) aluminium smelter in Dhenkanal district and another Rs 1 lakh crore for a 6 MTPA refinery in Rayagada district.
Driving Odisha’s Industrial Growth
According to Agarwal, the project represents one of India’s biggest steps toward industrial self-reliance and aligns closely with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat vision. “This is not merely an industrial project but a nation-building exercise,” Agarwal stated in his letter. He stressed that the successful execution of this venture would require close coordination between Vedanta and the Odisha government to ensure timely approvals and effective implementation.
Agarwal also underscored Vedanta’s commitment to inclusive development through the creation of a large downstream aluminium park adjacent to the main project site. The proposed park will host over 200 medium and small-scale industries, each with integrated access to aluminium and power on a non-profit basis. This, he said, would establish a self-sustaining industrial ecosystem that boosts local entrepreneurship, employment, and skill development.
Strengthening Odisha’s Industrial Leadership
Highlighting Odisha’s growing role as a key hub for minerals and manufacturing, Agarwal noted that Vedanta has already secured the Sijimali bauxite block through auction, which will serve as the primary raw material source for the project. “Odisha has immense potential to become the aluminium capital of the world,” Agarwal said, emphasizing that this project would significantly enhance the state’s standing in global aluminium production.
The Vedanta chief also revealed his plan to visit Bhubaneswar before Diwali, accompanied by senior executives, to meet with the chief minister and top bureaucrats. The agenda includes discussing the project’s next steps, pending clearances, and strategies for expediting implementation. He has also proposed a joint press interaction—including international media participation—to showcase Odisha’s leadership in industrial transformation and its conducive investment environment.
Clearances Under Review
The timing of Agarwal’s outreach is crucial, as the environmental and forest clearances for the Sijimali bauxite mine are currently under review. The project has drawn attention from environmental groups and local communities, who have raised concerns regarding ecological and social impacts.
Meanwhile, Odisha’s top officials have already begun preparatory discussions ahead of Agarwal’s visit. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja held a meeting with officials from the Steel and Mines Department, the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), and other related agencies on Monday to review the status and requirements of Vedanta’s upcoming projects.
A Boost to Odisha’s Economic Vision
If implemented as planned, Vedanta’s mega aluminium project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and significantly boost Odisha’s position as a leading player in India’s industrial and mining sectors. The project could also attract ancillary investments, improving infrastructure and enhancing socio-economic conditions in Dhenkanal, Rayagada, and surrounding regions.
With Vedanta pushing for fast-track approvals and the state government’s focus on industrial growth, Odisha is poised to play a central role in India’s next wave of manufacturing expansion.
