Amaravati, Mar 23 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the Rs 1.35 lakh crore ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) project as a world-class integrated steel plant that will further strengthen India’s steelmaking capabilities.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for the project at Nakkapalli mandal in Anakapalli district. Union Steel and Heavy Industries Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and global steel industry leaders Lakshmi Mittal and Aditya Mittal, were among others present.
“This is a world-class integrated steel plant that will further strengthen India’s steelmaking capabilities. It marks a major milestone in Andhra Pradesh’s development journey and will create opportunities for youth while positioning the state as a hub of industrial innovation,” an official release, quoting PM Modi said.
The project will also strengthen India’s position as a global steel manufacturing leader, the release added.
The AM/NS India project will be executed in phases, with Phase 1 involving Rs 70,000 crore to establish an 8.2 million tonne per annum capacity, making it India’s largest greenfield steel plant. The facility is expected to commence production by the first quarter of 2029.
The plant is expected to generate around one lakh direct and indirect employment opportunities, providing a significant boost to livelihoods and regional economic growth.
Praising the Andhra Pradesh government for its industrial push, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy on Monday said the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India plant here in Anakapalli district reflects growing global confidence in India.
Addressing a meeting after laying the foundation for the steel plant, the Union Minister credited Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s forward-looking approach and administrative strength for positioning the state as a progressive investment destination.
“I appreciate the Andhra Pradesh government’s strong push towards industrial growth, and I believe the upcoming integrated steel plant reflects the growing global confidence in India,” he said.
According to him, the selection of Nakkapalli region for the project underscores the state’s strategic vision, robust infrastructure planning and proactive governance, supported by the Centre.
The Union Minister said the central government is focusing on enhancing domestic steel capacity, promoting value-added production and reducing import dependence as part of its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
He further said the Centre is prioritising infrastructure alignment, raw material security and policy support to ensure the steel sector remains globally competitive and future-ready.
Turning to local industry concerns, Kumaraswamy reaffirmed that the revival of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) remains a key priority. He highlighted that over Rs 11,440 crore in financial support has been extended to stabilise the Vizag Steel Plant.
“Sustained efforts have been made to improve efficiency, restore production capacity and rebuild confidence among employees and stakeholders, reflecting coordinated efforts by the Centre and the state.” The central minister reiterated that the government remains committed to strengthening RINL and restoring its position as a key pillar of India’s steel sector.
He added that the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel plant in Andhra Pradesh will boost regional development, generate employment, strengthen Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and enhance economic activity.
Kumaraswamy said the project will significantly contribute to Andhra Pradesh’s industrial growth and India’s economic progress.
Earlier, the Union Minister visited the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant and held a comprehensive review of RINL. PTI MS KH ROH
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