Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated India’s first Flat Rolled Products (FRP) unit and a specialised battery foil manufacturing facility in Sambalpur district. The event also marked the ground-breaking of the Aditya Aluminium Smelter project, which involves an investment of Rs 21,162 crore. Hindalco’s projects, valued at Rs 26,996 crore, are expected to create 5,012 jobs, boosting downstream manufacturing and providing new livelihood opportunities.
The newly launched FRP and battery-grade aluminium foil facilities are crucial for indigenising raw materials for lithium-ion batteries. These facilities will support up to 100 GWh of cell manufacturing capacity. By sourcing input directly from the FRP complex, the integrated setup establishes a comprehensive aluminium value chain in Odisha. This chain spans primary metal to advanced applications in electric mobility, energy storage, defence, packaging, and renewable energy.
Industrial Growth and Employment Opportunities
Currently, nearly 40 per cent of flat-rolled aluminium is imported. The expansion aims to significantly reduce this import dependence. “Western Odisha now stands as a symbol of confidence, discipline and enterprise transforming from forests and farmlands into a hub of world-class manufacturing,” said Chief Minister Majhi. He emphasised that workers are the true architects of Odisha’s industrial success.
Majhi highlighted that development is not just about investments or announcements but real changes in people’s lives. This includes jobs for youth, security for families, and improved education and healthcare. He stated that a new industrial revolution has begun in Odisha with nearly Rs 20 lakh crore in industrial proposals for new establishments. Once operational, these projects could create around 15 lakh new jobs.
Odisha’s Integral Role in Industrial Journey
Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, expressed that Odisha has been central to their industrial journey. Through Hindalco, they are building a robust aluminium ecosystem that combines scale, value addition, and sustainability. This initiative aims to create long-term economic and social value for the state.
Satish Pai, Managing Director of Hindalco Industries Limited, noted that the FRP expansion and smelter growth at Sambalpur enhance Odisha’s role across the aluminium value chain. This integrated ecosystem promotes value addition, employment, and industrial depth within the state.
Showcasing Industrial Capabilities
Later in the day, Chief Minister Majhi inaugurated the 25th edition of CII Enterprise Odisha Exhibition 2026 in Rourkela. This expo features leading companies from various sectors showcasing their capabilities, innovations, and industrial growth stories. Enterprise Odisha serves as a flagship industry platform highlighting Odisha’s industrial capabilities and investment opportunities.
The inaugural evening of the Expo included a cultural programme and Rourkela’s first drone show. This event showcased Western Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, social life, and industrial progress.
With inputs from PTI
