Tata Steel approves key capacity expansions and strategic investments

Tata Steel's board has reaffirmed its long-term growth strategy for the India business, focusing on disciplined capital allocation, capacity expansion, downstream growth, and low-carbon technologies. Several key projects and approvals have been outlined as part of this roadmap.

The board has given in-principle approval for a 4.8 mln tons per annum Phase 1 expansion at Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited (NINL), strengthening Tata Steel's long products portfolio and supporting growth in India's construction-led retail market.

To boost flat steel output, the board approved funding for design and engineering of a 2.5 mln tons per annum thin slab caster and rolling facility at Tata Steel Meramandali, along with progressing required regulatory approvals. The project will significantly increase capacity for thinner-gauge finished steel.

In line with its downstream growth strategy, Tata Steel will set up a 0.7 mln tons per annum hot-rolled pickling and galvanizing line at its Tarapur complex in Maharashtra. The investment follows recent consolidation of its stake in Tata Steel BlueScope and is aimed at meeting automotive-sector demand and reducing import dependence.

The company has also signed a MoU with Lloyds Metals & Energy Ltd (LMEL) to explore collaboration in mining, logistics, pelletizing, and steelmaking in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district. The discussions include operating mining concessions, supporting a proposed greenfield 6 mln tons per annum steel capacity for Tata Steel, and cooperating on LMEL's existing integrated steel projects, subject to due diligence and approvals.

Additionally, Tata Steel has agreed to acquire a 50.01pct stake in Thriveni Pellets Private Limited (TPPL), which owns Brahmani River Pellets Ltd (BRPL), operator of a 4 mln tons per annum pellet plant in Jajpur, Odisha, and a 212-km slurry pipeline. LMEL will hold the remaining 49.99pct.

The board also advanced Tata Steel's low-carbon agenda by approving engineering and regulatory steps toward building a 1 mln tons per annum HIsarna demonstration plant in Jamshedpur. The proprietary technology, trialed for a decade at the IJmuiden pilot plant, eliminates coke use and utilizes lower-grade ores and steel slag, supporting the company's long-term decarbonization plans.

Tata Steel Group ranks among the world's leading steel producers, with an annual crude steel capacity of 35 mln tons.