Tata Steel’s Manganese Mines Win FICCI Gold for Safety

Tata Steel’s Manganese Group of Mines has won the Gold award at the 11th FICCI Awards for Excellence in Safety Systems. The announcement was made in New Delhi. The award highlights the company’s progress in building safer and more efficient mining operations.

Focus on Eastern Mining Belt

The award covers Tata Steel’s mechanised manganese mines in the Joda region of Odisha. These include the Joda West, Khondbond, Bamebari and Tiringpahar mines. They supply ore to Tata Steel’s own ferro-alloy plants and also support several industries across the eastern mineral belt. As a result, the recognition adds strength to the mining network that links Odisha and Jharkhand.

Leadership and Recognition

Shambhu Nath Jha, Chief, Mines (FAMD), and Santosha Kumar Rout, Senior Area Manager, Safety, Mines (FAMD), accepted the award from senior officials of the Commerce and Labour ministries. The jury praised the mines for their consistent performance, structured systems and constant safety improvements.

“This award reinforces our belief that safety is not a target but a culture,” said Shambhu Nath Jha. “We are investing in technology, training and everyday practices so that everyone on our sites works safely and returns home safely. This is central to our commitment to responsible and sustainable mining.”

Tech-Enabled, People-Centric Safety

Over the past few years, Tata Steel has added several digital tools and monitoring systems at these mines. The company has also strengthened training and risk-management practices. Because of these steps, the sites follow both national and international safety standards.

The company’s “Zero Harm” vision guides all its mining and manufacturing units. Through leadership involvement and worker participation, Tata Steel aims to build a culture in which safety remains the first priority.

A Model for the Mining Sector

The recognition offers an example for other mining companies. As India prepares for stronger mineral demand, awards like this encourage firms to balance production with safe and sustainable methods. In this environment, Tata Steel’s performance stands out as a model that others can study and adapt.