OSPA to be a strong, constructive voice for steel industry, says newly elected President Asit Tripathy

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 16, 2026

 “Odisha is at the forefront of India’s steel growth story. OSPA will serve as a strong and constructive voice for the industry, aligned with the state’s long-term development goals,” said Asit Tripathy, following his unanimous election as President of the Odisha Steel Producers’ Association (OSPA).

A newly formed industry body representing leading steel manufacturers in the state, OSPA has entrusted its leadership to the former IAS officer, whose extensive experience in governance, public policy, and industrial development is expected to strengthen industry–government collaboration and further position Odisha as a key steel hub in India.

Currently serving as Advisor at Jindal Steel, Tripathy emphasized the association’s commitment to working closely with the government and stakeholders to create an enabling ecosystem for responsible and inclusive industrial growth.

Members of OSPA welcomed his appointment, expressing confidence that his deep understanding of policy frameworks, infrastructure development, and stakeholder engagement will be instrumental in guiding the association’s vision and priorities.

The association has also appointed S.K. Popli, IFS (Retd.), as Secretary General. A former Indian Forest Service officer, Popli has held several key leadership roles in government and has contributed significantly to natural resource management, regulatory systems, and sustainable development initiatives.

The meeting saw participation from representatives of 15 major steel companies operating in Odisha, including Jindal Steel, JSW Steel, Jindal Stainless, AMNS, Rungta Mines, Narbheram Steel, MGM Steel, Aarti Steel, and Essar Steel — reflecting strong industry alignment amid rapid capacity expansion and a shared focus on inclusive growth.

Member companies agreed to nominate representatives to the Apex Committee and various sub-committees in the coming days. It was also decided that key operational and policy issues would be collectively identified and addressed in the broader interest of the state’s industrial ecosystem.

OSPA aims to serve as a unified platform for Odisha’s steel industry, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and constructive engagement with policymakers and stakeholders. With Odisha contributing over 50 percent of India’s iron ore production and rapidly expanding its steel manufacturing capacity, the association is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the sector’s future trajectory.