Hindalco to invest Rs 100 crore to develop the
project under its CSR initiative, creating around 1,200 jobs
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR/KEONJHAR, FEBRUARY 14, 2026
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday laid the foundation
stone for a modern apparel manufacturing unit at Balabhadrapur in Keonjhar
district, marking a significant step towards inclusive industrial growth and
rural livelihood generation. The unit will be developed by Hindalco Industries
Limited, the Aditya Birla Group’s flagship metals company, under its Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The state government has allotted land for the project, underscoring its
focus on promoting sustainable industrialisation in mineral-rich yet
underdeveloped regions. Once operational, the unit is expected to generate
around 1,200 direct and indirect employment opportunities, providing a major
boost to local communities, particularly women and youth.
The facility will feature modern infrastructure and advanced
manufacturing systems to ensure high-quality production standards while
maintaining a safe, inclusive, and worker-friendly environment. In addition to
direct employment within the unit, ancillary services such as logistics, supply
chain operations, and local sourcing are expected to create further indirect
livelihood opportunities in the surrounding areas.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Majhi commended Hindalco for its
continued contribution to Odisha’s socio-economic development. He said the
project aligns with the government’s vision of transforming mineral-bearing
districts into hubs of diversified economic activity. “This apparel unit will
generate employment for about 1,200 youth and women, strengthening the local
economy and enhancing household incomes. The unit is expected to produce 24
lakh garments annually. I thank Hindalco for partnering with the state in this
important initiative,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that garments for leading brands such as Louis
Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly, and Peter England will be manufactured at
the facility and supplied to global markets. He described the project as a
matter of pride for the state and said it supports Odisha’s broader goal of
expanding value-added industries beyond mining and heavy manufacturing.
Hindalco Industries Limited President (Corporate Affairs) Ardhendu
Mohapatra said the company remains committed to empowering communities in its
operational areas. “This apparel manufacturing unit reflects our dedication to
creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. We are grateful to the
Government of Odisha for its support and look forward to working closely with
the local community,” he said.
The Keonjhar unit is part of Hindalco’s expanding livelihood initiatives
in Odisha. Another apparel unit is currently under construction at Tikiri,
while a similar facility is planned in Sambalpur. Together, these projects aim
to strengthen skill development and generate employment, particularly for
underprivileged sections, Mohapatra added.
Keonjhar MP Ananta Nayak also addressed the gathering. Keonjhar Collector Vishal Singh delivered the welcome address, while OCAC CEO Dr Pradeep Kumar Raut proposed the vote of thanks.
Among others, Patna MLA Akhil Chandra Naik, Telkoi MLA Dr Fakir Mohan Naik, and Keonjhar Municipality Chairperson Liku Sahu were present on the occasion.
