Odisha is rich in mineral resources like iron ore, manganese ore, bauxite, coal, chrome ore - and in terms of geographical distribution, its mineral reserves constitute nearly 17% of the total mineral reserves of the Country. The State in spite of its vast mineral potential and rich mineral resources had surprisingly been one of the most neglected states in the country for a long time.
Tata Steel re-defined Odisha’s growth trajectory way back in the early 20th century when legendary geologist P.N.Bose discovered Iron ore in the Gorumahisani, Badampahar and Sulaipat areas. The close proximity to the Iron ore deposits in the state of Mayurbhanj thus led to the setting up of the India's first private Steel plant by Tatas in the undivided Odisha, Bengal and Bihar in 1907. Since then, Tata Steel has been playing a pioneering role in the industrial and socio-economic development of the state and continues to be a committed partner in Odisha's progress.
Incidentally, at the time when the Iron ore and flux deposits were discovered in Odisha, no geological data were available either with the Government or any other agency in the country. Tata Steel’s dedicated research and initiatives in these areas were streamlined through a Geological Department set up in 1915. After Independence, the Government of Odisha created a Directorate for Mining and Geology, based on the geological reports of Tata Steel for the grant of mineral concessions. The first public sector steel plant at Rourkela, which was commissioned in 1955, had the advantage of ready expertise from trained technical personnel of Tata Steel.
Tata Steel first discovered Iron ore at Joda a hundred years ago in the year 1909. From discovery to a sustained holistic development, the century-old chronicle of Joda has been eventful and dynamic. History has witnessed the Joda dream gradually giving way to pragmatic reality dotted with several milestones that have ensured the holistic development for the people of Odisha.
In all its mining operations, Tata Steel has over the years addressed all issues of environment with total commitment and utmost urgency. In an effort to minimise the footprint of its operations, the economic viability of any Tata Steel mining project has always given precedence to an evaluation of its environmental or social outcome. Sustainable mining continues to be one of the main factors for the growth and prosperity of Tata Steel.
What began as a venture for Tata Steel has transformed into a success story for Odisha, making it the destination for many new industries. The Company’s philosophy of giving back to the community what it has received by several folds continues to enrich the lives of many.
