Asit Tripathy Elected President of Odisha Steel Producers’ Association

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Steel Producers’ Association (OSPA), a newly established body representing key steel manufacturers in the state, has unanimously elected former IAS officer Asit Tripathy as its president.

Tripathy, who earlier served as the Chief Secretary of Odisha, is currently working as an advisor at Jindal Steel. Known for his extensive experience in governance, policy formulation, and industrial development, his appointment is being viewed as a strategic step to enhance collaboration between the industry and the government.

Members of OSPA welcomed his election and expressed strong confidence in his leadership. They noted that his deep understanding of public policy, infrastructure, and stakeholder coordination would be crucial in guiding the association’s future initiatives.

Addressing the development, Tripathy said Odisha continues to play a leading role in India’s steel growth story. He emphasized that the association would act as a constructive voice for the industry while aligning with the state’s long-term development goals. He also underlined the importance of working closely with government authorities and stakeholders to ensure responsible and inclusive industrial growth.

In a related development, retired Indian Forest Service officer SK Popli has been appointed as the Secretary General of OSPA. Popli brings significant administrative experience, particularly in natural resource management, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable development.

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. Their presence highlighted a strong sense of unity within the industry amid ongoing expansion.

It was also decided that member companies would soon nominate representatives to the association’s apex committee and sub-committees. Additionally, firms will submit key operational and policy-related issues for collective discussion.

The Odisha Steel Producers’ Association aims to serve as a unified platform for the steel sector in the state by fostering collaboration, encouraging knowledge sharing, and maintaining constructive dialogue with policymakers. With Odisha contributing over 50 percent of India’s iron ore production and rapidly expanding its steel manufacturing capacity, the association is expected to play a key role in shaping the sector’s future trajectory.