ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) on Friday (March 28) announced the beginning of the acquisition of a land parcel in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, as part of its plans to set up a state-of-the-art integrated steel plant in Rajayapeta of the district. The initial payment for acquiring the land has been made, and possession is expected soon, paving the way for the company to commence work on the greenfield project, as per a release.

The plant’s proposed initial capacity is 7.3 MTPA, in the first phase, and as per the release the plant reinforces AM/NS India’s commitment to contributing to India’s national ambition to reach 300 MTPA crude steel capacity by 2030 and strengthening domestic manufacturing in line with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

The shore-based unit, will have a total capacity of manufacturing 17.80 million tons per anum and potential to provide one lakh jobs. It is being set up with a total investment of ₹1,47,162 crore at Nakkapalli in Anakapalli district.

In the first phase it will have a capacity of 7.30 MTPA and it will be scaled up by 10.50 MTPA in the first and second phase. The government of A.P. has already issued orders for allocating about 2,200 acres for its first phase.

Welcoming the development, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said: “We welcome ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India to Andhra Pradesh and are committed to providing all requisite support to ensure its success. This mega steel plant will not only create substantial employment opportunities but also foster socio-economic development for the communities and beyond. This project aligns with our vision of transforming Andhra Pradesh into a leading industrial hub.”

Executive Chairman ArcelorMittal Lakshmi Mittal said: “This investment in Andhra Pradesh deepens and broadens our presence in Indian steel making and takes us closer to Viksit Bharat. This is a proud moment for all at AM/NS India, and Andhra Pradesh; together we hope to make a meaningful addition to India’s growing stature as a pre-eminent force in global manufacturing.”

Chairman ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India and CEO, ArcelorMittal Aditya Mittal said: “Our investment today is the first step in an exciting plan to build a world-class steel plant in Andhra Pradesh that strengthens our contribution to India’s long-term steel manufacturing ambitions. We thank the government of Andhra Pradesh for its steadfast leadership and shared commitment to a project that will create jobs and sustainable economic and societal value for local communities, the State and India.”

Chairman of the task force for generating 20 Lakh jobs in AP Minister of IT & HRD Nara Lokesh welcomed the move and reiterated commitment of government of Andhra Pradesh to speed of doing business and facilitating AM/NS’s entry into the state of Andhra Pradesh.