Interview Times 
Mr. Damodar Mittal is a distinguished professional with an illustrious career spanning over 34 years in the Iron, Steel, and Mining industries. He commenced his journey as a Graduate Engineer Trainee (GET) with Jindal Steel & Power Limited in 1989, gradually ascending to the esteemed position of Executive Director. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Mittal has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in managing various crucial aspects of primary manufacturing divisions and projects.
His extensive experience encompasses overseeing vital projects such as Blast Furnace, Coke Ovens & CDQ, DRI plant, Pellet plant, Slurry pipeline project, and Oxygen Plant. Mr. Mittal is recognized as a proficient project management professional adept at organizing and executing diverse projects, emphasizing planning, project administration, strategic scheduling, quality control, cost management, and resource optimization.
A trailblazer in implementing innovative approaches, Mr. Mittal has consistently delivered remarkable results, efficiently tackling even the most challenging tasks within stringent timeframes and budgetary constraints. His responsibilities extend to iron-making technology, including production management, benchmarking, technology management, conceptualization, and strategic planning for future business needs in the global market. His accomplishments are similar to a master chess player, adept at recognizing patterns and anticipating moves in order to win the game. He is able to think several steps ahead and plan appropriately for the future, while also addressing the current challenges with dexterity.
Noteworthy among his achievements is the successful establishment of the Iron and Steel Business of Jindal Steel & Power Limited in Angul, Odisha, where he played a pivotal role in managing the operation and maintenance of significant facilities, including Direct Reduced Iron Plant, Steel Melting Shop, billet Caster, and various manufacturing divisions. His expertise also extends to the management of essential projects such as Coal Gasification Plant, Raw materials, and other crucial infrastructure.
With a robust educational background in Mechanical Engineering and the Metallurgical stream, Mr. Mittal’s professional journey has been marked by numerous milestones. He has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the conversion of Nalwa Steel and Power Ltd. into a 0.5 MTPA Integrated Steel Plant with a Power generation capacity of 24 MW. Additionally, he led the establishment of Tensa Mines in Odisha and commissioned the world’s largest Coal-Based DRI Plant.
Mr. Mittal’s contributions to the field have been widely recognized, evident from his numerous professional accolades, peer-reviewed publications, patents, and honors. Notably, he was conferred with the “EMINENT ENGINEER” award in 2014 by The Institution of Engineers (India) for his outstanding contributions to society and national development. He also received the MECON award in 2015 from the Indian Institute of Metal, Kolkata, among other prestigious recognitions.
His professional affiliations include memberships in esteemed organizations such as the All India Management Association (AIMA), AISTech, The Institution of Engineers (India), the Institute of Metals, and the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Science and Technology in Ironmaking and Steelmaking (STIs), formed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. Additionally, Mr. Mittal holds the designation of a Certified Project Manager from PMA, further underscoring his expertise in project management.
In his current capacity as the head of Research and Development for Jindal Group of Industries, Mr. Mittal continues to drive innovation and excellence, cementing his legacy as a visionary leader and a driving force in the Iron, Steel, and Mining industry.
Mr Mittal has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and expanding the business of the company. Under his leadership, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd has undertaken several ambitious projects and investments to enhance its market presence and global reach. Mittal’s sharp business acumen and forward-thinking approach have guided the company in exploring new opportunities and tapping into emerging markets.
One of the key management strategies implemented by Mittal is a focus on continuous improvement and efficiency. He has encouraged the adoption of modern technologies and streamlined processes to optimize operations and drive productivity. Mittal’s emphasis on talent development and nurturing a strong leadership pipeline has also been pivotal in ensuring the long-term success of Jindal Steel & Power Ltd.
Mittal envisions Jindal Steel & Power Ltd as a globally recognized leader in the steel and power industry. He aims to establish the company as a socially responsible and sustainable business that meets the evolving needs of customers while contributing to the welfare of society. Mittal’s vision is rooted in innovation, diversification, and a commitment to excellence.
The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. With his unwavering determination and commitment to excellence, Mittal is driving JSPL toward a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, making it a true global leader in the steel and power industry.
