An award function on the occasion of World Environment Day was organised at L&D Center of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) on 5th May, 2025. The award function was chaired by Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR). Also present on the dais were Mr. Biswaranjan Palai, ED (Works) and Mr. M P Singh ED (Mines). A large number of CGMs and many other Senior Officers of the Plant were present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Misra mentioned that efforts are underway to enforce strict norms in the township to ban single-use plastic and encouraged the use of cloth bags as a responsible alternative. He appreciated the creativity and relevance of the slogans contributed by the employees for the competitions and stressed that such messages should not remain confined to events alone but must be practiced in daily life. “Unless we stop accepting plastic bags, shopkeepers will continue to offer them,” he said, urging everyone to adopt sustainable habits.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Palai, emphasized this year’s theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ and said “The fact that this theme has been taken up again shows that we have not achieved much in the fight against plastic pollution,”. He further added that the celebration of Environment Day should serve as a daily reminder to stay vigilant and committed to reducing plastic use in our lives.
Mr. M. P. Singh highlighted the various efforts being undertaken in the mines area to mitigate pollution and promote eco-friendly practices. “If reuse, reduce, or recycle is not possible, then replace should be our motto,” he said. He also underscored the need to explore innovative solutions for sustainable production to ensure long-term environmental balance.
The dignitaries presented prizes to the winners of the essay and slogan competitions organized for RSP employees to mark the occasion. The dignitaries also awarded Sintering Plant-I, Silicon Steel Mill and Civil Engineering Services for becoming the environment champion in Iron &Steel zone, Rolling Mills Zone and Services Zone respectively in the year 2024-25.
At the outset, Mr. P C Dash, GM I/c (Environment Engineering) delivered the welcome address and gave a detailed presentation on the theme for this year. Mr. V V R Murty, GM (EED), proposed a vote of thanks. The proceedings began with rendition of national anthem. Ms. Rajani Pragada, Manager (Environment Engineering) coordinated the function.
It is worth mentioning here that RSP is continuing its relentless efforts to protect and preserve the environment and produce steel in harmony with nature. Progressive adoption of Environment friendly new technologies, Environmental Monitoring and Spreading Environmental Awareness have always remained the three focus areas of the Steel Plant.
