Mr. Sandeep Poundrik, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Government of India held an interaction session with the executives of SAIL’s Odisha Group of Mines (OGoM) and Jharkhand Group of Mines (JGoM) at Gopabandhu Auditorium of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) on 7th January, 2026. Mr. Amarendu Prakash, Chairman and Managing Director, SAIL, Mr. Abhijeet Narendra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Government of India, Mr. Manish Raj Gupta, Director (Technical, Projects & Raw Materials) SAIL with additional Charge of CMD, RINL and Mr. Alok Verma, Director In-Charge, RSP were present on the dais. The interaction session aimed at preparing and implementing roadmap for achieving 100 MTPA iron ore production from the mines of SAIL by 2031. Around 400 executives from Mines and RSP attended the session.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Poundrik said that with the Government of India’s strong focus on enhancing domestic steel production, the Indian steel market is witnessing rapid expansion, leading to a corresponding increase in demand for iron ore. “This presents a significant opportunity for SAIL to leverage its vast mining capabilities by enhancing production, improving operational efficiencies and adopting modern mining technologies,” he added. Emphasising the critical role of individuals across all levels, Mr. Poundrik urged the collective to instil a sense of pride and ownership in order to set new benchmarks of excellence.
Mr. Amarendu Prakash, in his address, said that when the need is strong, outcomes inevitably follow. “When Dreams transform into plans, and once plans are in place, progress begins itself,” he added.
Mr. Vikas Manwati, ED (JGoM) made a detailed presentation on ‘SAIL@100MTPA Iron ore-Risks, Readiness and the Way forward’ on the occasion. The Secretary (Steel) reviewed the performance, bottlenecks and future road maps of each of the mines and emphasised upon optimal utilisation of the mineralised area. He also stressed upon expediting the timeframe for implementation of projects.
Earlier, Mr. M P Singh, ED (Mines, OGoM-CMLO) welcomed the gathering. Mr. Malla Srinivasu, CGM (BOM-CMLO) proposed a formal vote of thanks.
It is noteworthy that Mr. Poundrik accompanied by the Senior Officers arrived at Rourkela in the morning before proceeding to the interaction session. He was accorded a guard of honour at the airport by the RSP CISF unit.
The visiting dignitaries returned to New Delhi in the afternoon. A Guard of Honour was presented to the Secretary Steel at Rourkela House before departure.
