Tata Steel preparing to meet global steel industry challenges, says Atul Bhatnagar
Jamshedpur, April 29: Tata Steel is set to significantly enhance its mining capacity in response to the evolving challenges of the global steel industry. Over the next five years, the mining capacity of its OMQ (Ores, Mines & Quarries) division—comprising Noamundi, Joda, and Katamati mines—will be expanded from the current 40 million tonnes to 55 million tonnes. To support this growth, the company is investing Rs 10,000 crore in technological upgrades and logistics, a move that is expected to generate employment for around 1,200 people.
Tata Steel GM (OMQ) Atul Bhatnagar shared these developments while speaking to reporters in Noamundi. He said, “Tata Steel is preparing to meet global challenges in the steel sector by strengthening its raw material base and modernizing operations.” He confirmed the company’s intent to participate in the 2030 auction of the Noamundi mines and also bid in upcoming mine auctions in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Mining operations are expected to begin in two blocks in Sundargarh, Odisha, within the next two years.
As part of the centenary celebrations of Noamundi Mines, the company is undertaking several community development initiatives. TMH Hospital in Noamundi will soon offer dialysis facilities and there are plans underway to establish a nursing college. Discussions with the workers’ union are also ongoing to provide a special gift to employees on the occasion of the mine’s 100-year milestone.
Bhatnagar noted the dramatic transformation of the mining industry over the past century, with increased productivity and improved surveillance. Five mining points in Noamundi are now monitored 24/7 by CCTV systems that can be accessed remotely from Jamshedpur, helping to enhance operational efficiency. Technological advancements and the integration of AI have significantly improved safety and logistics in the mining process.
He also revealed that Tata Steel is in the process of patenting two mining-related technologies. One pertains to segregating large boulders post-blasting, while the other uses a high-speed imaging camera to inspect dumper loads. Bhatnagar highlighted that women are now actively participating in mining roles and emphasized Tata Steel’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion in the sector.
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