Kumaraswamy Backs RINL Workforce, Promises Full Support for Revival as Ministers Review Vizag Steel Plant
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Kumaraswamy reiterated the national target of achieving 300 million tonnes steel capacity by 2030
In a strong show of confidence in the workforce of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited, Union Minister for Steel & Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the revival and long-term growth of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant during a high-level visit on Monday.
Accompanied by Minister of State Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, the Union Minister undertook a comprehensive inspection of key facilities, including Coke Oven Batteries, Blast Furnace-3, and the Wire Rod Mill, underscoring the strategic importance of operational efficiency and production optimisation.
The visiting delegation was received by CMD (Additional Charge) Manish Raj Gupta, who expressed gratitude for the Centre’s continued support in navigating the PSU through its current challenges.
During the visit, Kumaraswamy closely examined the coke-making process—critical to blast furnace efficiency—and appreciated the technical capabilities and dedication of the workforce. At Blast Furnace-3, he interacted directly with employees and lauded their efforts in achieving strong production performance this year.
In his remarks recorded in the visitor’s book, Kumaraswamy congratulated RINL employees for their achievements and expressed hope that the plant would emerge as the best steel facility in the country through sustained commitment.
A detailed review meeting followed, where the Minister evaluated key operational parameters including capacity utilisation, techno-economic performance, sustainability initiatives, and by-product recovery systems.
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Kumaraswamy reiterated the national target of achieving 300 million tonnes steel capacity by 2030, alongside the broader goals of Net Zero by 2070 and Viksit Bharat 2047.
He directed RINL management to adopt time-bound, result-oriented strategies to:
- Enhance capacity utilisation
- Secure raw material linkages
- Improve operational efficiency
- Streamline plant processes
Emphasising accountability and coordinated execution, the Minister called for strict monitoring mechanisms and adoption of best industry practices.
Expressing optimism, Kumaraswamy said that with focused execution and collective commitment, RINL would overcome present challenges and emerge stronger, assuring full government support.
The Minister also acknowledged the role of stakeholders, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, MPs, MLAs, and public representatives, in facilitating support for the PSU.
In a significant outreach effort, the Ministers interacted with trade unions, SC/ST and OBC associations, WIPS, and Steel Executives’ Associations, assuring them that employee concerns would be addressed in due course.
Minister of State Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma urged employees to work with renewed commitment to restore RINL’s past glory and achieve new milestones.
Senior leadership, including functional directors and top executives, were present during the visit.
