Bokaro Steel Limited (BSL), a subsidiary of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), held its annual press conference today, with Director-in-Charge (DIC) BK Tiwari at the helm, accompanied by senior officials. The focus of the event was to review the company’s performance, future plans, and key initiatives for sustainable growth. Key officials in attendance included CR Mahapatra (Executive Director, Projects), Suresh Rangani (Executive Director, Finance & Accounts), Rajan Prasad (Executive Director, HR), Jaideep Dasgupta (Executive Director, Mines), Dr. BB Karunamay (Chief Medical Officer), Laxmi Das (CGM, Technical), Hari Mohan Jha (CGM, HR), and Kundan Kumar (CGM, Town Administration).
In his address, DIC BK Tiwari acknowledged the challenges posed by a downturn in the international steel market, with global steel consumption experiencing a sharp decline. However, he pointed out that the Indian market remains strong, with robust demand that has allowed SAIL BSL to maintain steady performance amidst these global challenges. He assured that despite these international pressures, BSL continues to thrive domestically, demonstrating its resilience and adaptability.
A significant portion of DIC Tiwari’s address was dedicated to BSL’s growing focus on environmental sustainability. He emphasized that while production and profitability remain essential to the plant’s operations, reducing its carbon footprint has become a major priority. He expressed the company’s commitment to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of achieving net-zero carbon emissions, reflecting BSL’s active role in contributing to a more sustainable future. "We are fully committed to reducing emissions and ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations," said Tiwari.
In line with the national "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative, Tiwari reaffirmed BSL’s preference for indigenous products and materials. He highlighted the plant’s commitment to sourcing locally and supporting domestic industries, ensuring that BSL remains a key player in promoting India’s self-reliance.
Another major achievement discussed during the press conference was the successful automation of BSL’s Hot Strip Mill, a critical aspect of the plant’s production line. Tiwari praised the team for not only completing the project on time but also achieving early stabilization of the system. He described the automation as a “commendable feat” and an essential step in enhancing efficiency and streamlining operations.
Furthering the conversation on sustainability, Tiwari discussed BSL’s “waste to wealth” initiative, which focuses on converting steel production by-products, such as LD slag, into valuable resources. He mentioned that the company is exploring various options to organize the extraction of useful materials from slag more efficiently, thereby contributing to both environmental and economic goals.
Addressing concerns regarding the Bokaro township, Tiwari reassured stakeholders that BSL is making consistent efforts to improve infrastructure while tackling the issue of encroachments. He emphasized that controlling encroachments is not just a challenge for BSL but for many urban areas in India. He urged the public to support efforts in curbing illegal activities by raising societal awareness and changing the mindset at the grassroots level.
Tiwari also touched on the ongoing work in the Gua mines and Tasra coal blocks. He assured that all necessary coordination is underway to optimize productivity from these resources, ensuring that they contribute effectively to BSL’s operational needs and overall profitability.
In conclusion, Tiwari expressed confidence in BSL’s roadmap for the future. He noted that the company’s goals and challenges are well-defined, with a clear strategy in place to overcome obstacles and achieve sustained growth. Tiwari emphasized that BSL will continue to be a significant contributor to SAIL’s overall success, playing a vital role in India’s economic development.
