Odisha’s mining sector witnessed a major moment of pride as JSW Steel, Tata Steel and Jindal Steel secured multiple accolades at the 43rd Annual Metalliferous Mines Safety Fortnight Observance held in Bhubaneswar. The prestigious event was organised by the Eastern Zone Mining Association under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety, highlighting excellence in safety standards, innovation and operational efficiency across mining operations.

JSW Steel Odisha’s mining division emerged as a top performer by winning 23 awards, reflecting its commitment to safety, digitalisation and workforce welfare. Senior leaders Prasanna Panda and Ram Shankar Sharma accepted the honours along with their teams. Ganua Mines led the way with an overall first position in Group B4 and secured seven awards across categories such as innovation and digitalisation, general working, mock drill and welfare. Nugaon Mines achieved second place in Group A2, while Narayanposhi Mines secured third position in Group B1 with strong performance in multiple operational and safety categories. The company’s Jajang Occupational Health Centre ranked first in the general category while its Group Vocational Training Centre secured second place. JSW Steel also earned recognition for innovation through its exhibition stall, which showcased advanced mining technologies and the inclusion of women operators in mining operations.

Tata Steel’s Ferro Alloys and Minerals Division also delivered an impressive performance by winning 22 awards across various categories. Saruabil Chromite Mine emerged as the top performer in Group A5 with first prizes in innovation and digitalisation and publicity initiatives, along with several second and third prizes in operational excellence and safety measures. Kamarda Chromite Mine made a strong impact with top honours in training, health and welfare as well as safety compliance. In Group A2, Joda West Iron and Manganese Mine secured multiple first prizes for its operational excellence and innovation, while Bamebari and Tiringpahar mines added to the tally with several awards in safety compliance, maintenance and overall performance. The awards were received by senior officials including Shambhu Nath Jha, Naveen Shrivastava and Rajesh Kumar Ranjan.

Jindal Steel’s iron ore mining operations also stood out with a total of 16 awards, reinforcing its focus on safety and operational excellence. Kasia Iron and Dolomite Mines emerged as a major winner, securing first prizes in overall performance, mechanical maintenance, training health and welfare and emergency preparedness. Roida I Iron Mines received first prize in training and welfare, while TRB Iron Mines in Tensa achieved recognition across multiple safety and compliance categories. The company also earned top honours in common categories including best safety stall and group vocational training centre performance.

The awards ceremony was attended by Ujjwal Tah, Director General of the Directorate General of Mines Safety, who presented the awards and applauded the consistent efforts of mining professionals in maintaining high safety standards. The recognition reflects the collective dedication of employees, supervisors and management teams in building a strong safety culture and ensuring responsible mining practices across Odisha’s rapidly growing industrial landscape.