Bhubaneswar, Jul 11: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday met Aditya Birla Group Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla to review the conglomerate’s ongoing and proposed investments in the state, with a major announcement on expanding the Kansariguda alumina refinery in Rayagada district, officials said.

The greenfield refinery, being developed by Hindalco Industries Limited, was initially planned with a capacity of 1 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and an investment of Rs8,000 crore. Following proactive support from the state government, the Group has now proposed an additional Rs12,000 crore investment to enhance capacity by another 2 MTPA. With this expansion, the refinery’s total capacity will rise to 3 MTPA, taking overall investment to nearly Rs20,000 crore.

The project is expected to generate substantial direct and indirect employment, while creating opportunities for local enterprises, service providers, and downstream industries.

Welcoming the proposal, CM Majhi said Odisha’s mineral strength must translate into greater value addition, advanced manufacturing, and quality employment. “Aluminium is central to this vision. We intend not only to lead the country in alumina and aluminium production but also to build a globally competitive ecosystem across the entire value chain,” he emphasised.
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The Chief Minister assured the Group of continued support for timely implementation, promising facilitation of land, infrastructure, utilities, statutory approvals, and other project requirements through a coordinated approach.

The meeting also reviewed Aditya Birla Group’s existing and proposed investments across aluminium, alumina, chemicals, cement, renewable energy, textiles, and apparel. Discussions further explored possible investments in copper refining, copper-clad laminates, printed circuit boards, technical textiles, paints, jewellery manufacturing, and advanced aluminium products.

Officials said the Kansariguda expansion will reinforce Odisha’s position as India’s leading hub for metals, mineral processing, and value-added manufacturing.