The Odisha Government’s pre-emption scheme of iron Ore has saved many industries, protected thousands of people’s livelihood and resulted in the industrialisation of modern-day Odisha.
The steel sector, especially MSMEs, in the State is struggling for survival. About 44 sponge iron making units out of 106 have been closed, and several companies are operating below their installed capacities due to the unavailability of iron ore at competitive prices.
Recently, several industrial bodies like the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), the Odisha Sponge Iron Manufacturers Association (OSIMA) and others have requested for intervention of the to address the iron ore crisis in Odisha.
More than 15 sponge iron and pellet companies are eagerly waiting to receive the allotment of iron ore from the Steel and Mines Department to supply iron ore under the State’s pre-emption policy.