The JSW Group, led by Sajjan Jindal, is reportedly considering relocating its Rs 40,000-crore electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing project from Odisha to Maharashtra. According to media reports, the group is now eyeing cities like Aurangabad and Nagpur in Maharashtra as potential locations for this ambitious project.
Original Agreement with Odisha
Earlier this year, on February 10th, JSW signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Odisha government. The agreement included the establishment of an integrated EV and EV battery manufacturing facility in the state. The proposed project was to include an EV vehicle and component manufacturing plant at Naraj, Cuttack, and a copper smelter and lithium refinery at Paradip, Jagatsinghpur.
JSW’s plan encompassed a 50 GWH EV battery plant, along with related manufacturing units, marking a significant boost to Odisha’s industrial growth.
Potential Shift to Maharashtra
Despite the earlier agreement, JSW is now reportedly exploring options to move the project to Maharashtra, a state that has aggressively courted EV and battery investments. The possible relocation raises questions about the future of the investment promised to Odisha.
Government Response
Odisha’s Industries Minister, Sampad Chandra Swain, addressed the reports, stating that no final decision has been made regarding the relocation. “We are in talks with JSW, and everything will become clear once discussions conclude. They have not confirmed any shift from Odisha, and we are unaware of such plans at this stage,” he said. Swain further mentioned that delays in project execution are not uncommon, and the discussions with JSW are ongoing.
The potential relocation of the project could have significant implications for Odisha’s industrial landscape, though the state government remains hopeful of retaining the investment.
(With inputs from agencies)
