Bhubaneswar, Sept. 28 (UDN): Vedanta Group is planning to invest around Rs 1 lakh crore in Odisha over the next two-and-a-half to three years, with the proposed expansion covering aluminium, mining, refining and downstream manufacturing.
Representational Image
Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal announced the investment roadmap after meeting Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday. The proposed projects, he said, would depend on timely land allocation and the necessary government approvals.
Major Expansion Planned in Jharsuguda
A key component of the proposed investment is an expansion of Vedanta’s aluminium operations in Jharsuguda.
The company is considering setting up a 2-million-tonne plant in the district. According to Agarwal, around 500 acres of land is being made available near Vedanta’s existing power facility for the proposed expansion.
The project could generate at least 50,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, according to the company chairman.
Vedanta is also looking at expanding its operations across the aluminium value chain, including bauxite, refining and smelting.
Focus on Aluminium Downstream Industries
Agarwal also called for greater development of aluminium-based industries in Odisha, particularly among small and medium enterprises.
The proposed ecosystem could include manufacturers supplying components to sectors such as automobiles, aviation, railways and transportation. Vedanta plans to support such industries through supplies of aluminium and power, while giving priority to employment for people from Odisha.
New Refinery and Smelter Projects
The investment roadmap also includes a proposed refinery at Raigarh, along with new smelting and bauxite-linked projects.
The company is looking to expand its presence across the aluminium production chain, from raw material processing and refining to metal production and downstream applications.
Social Infrastructure Plans
Alongside industrial investments, Agarwal outlined plans for social infrastructure projects in Odisha.
These include a proposed large hospital for tribal communities, a digital university and a research hospital focused on medical research and the development of treatments for diseases including cancer.
The proposed investment programme is expected to further expand Vedanta’s industrial footprint in Odisha, subject to land availability, regulatory clearances and other approvals.
