“Cost Optimisation and a comprehensive review of operations & maintenance practices are essential to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving business scenario,” said Mr. Atanu Bhowmick, Director In-Charge, SAIL, RSP to the Plant collective, while addressing in the 872nd Mass Contact Exercise of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) organised on 5th September, 2024 at Gopabandhu Auditorium. Mr. S R Suryawanshi, ED (Works), and Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR) with Additional Charge of ED (Projects) were also present on the dais. Several CGMs, and HODs along with about 500 employees of different departments of RSP including Mines attended the programme.
Speaking further Mr. Bhowmick said, “The strategic decision to run two furnaces to meet production targets has helped us significantly improve the techno-economics which are now comparable to the best in the industry. However, the road ahead is tough due to the emerging steel market scenario and shrinking profit margins. At this critical juncture, each one of us must work with renewed focus and strategise to achieve operational excellence to drive down production cost.” Mr. Bhowmick underscored the importance of digitization, automation, and technological advancements for cost efficiency. He also stressed the critical need for safety at all levels, advocating for the realization of the Zero Harm and Ghar Se Ghar Tak Surakhya missions. The Director In-Charge shared insights into future expansion plans for the steel plant and expressed confidence in the RSP collective’s ability to overcome current challenges with resilience.
Earlier, the session commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem. This was followed by showcasing a film made by Public Relations Department comprising motivational video as well as the performance of RSP in current fiscal in various endeavours, targets, achievements and new facilities in the township. In another film the compliance status of the suggestions given in the last session was shown. Later, during the interaction session, employees gave suggestions pertaining to production, productivity, maintenance and safety issues. Happy with the quality of suggestion given during the interaction by Mr. Jay Kumar Behera of Blast Furnace-5, the DIC announced an instant ‘Best Suggester’ award for him.
The DIC also presented the Cost Champions of the 1st Quarter of FY 2024-25 to Coke Ovens & Coal Chemicals Department. It is noteworthy that RSP has introduced this unique scheme to recognize and encourage exceptional cost management achievements within the plant and foster a culture of efficiency, cost-consciousness, and continuous improvement among different departments.
The session ended with everyone joining to take a pledge to make RSP the best in every respect. Ms. Satyabati Behera, OA, L&D coordinated the programme.
