Suparjya Swain 
FEATURE: In the ever-evolving world of business, few names evoke as much respect and admiration as Er. Debabrata Behera. A visionary leader and the founder of Kashvi Group, Er. Behera has carved out a legacy that transcends traditional business success. His relentless pursuit of excellence, commitment to innovation, and unwavering dedication to his roots have not only shaped the growth of Kashvi Group but are also transforming the industrial landscape of Odisha.
From humble beginnings to an influential presence in sectors like steel, mining, and infrastructure, Er. Behera’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and hard work. Under his leadership, Kashvi Group has grown into a diversified conglomerate, contributing significantly to regional economic development and creating countless opportunities.
Yet, for Er. Behera, business success is not just about numbers. His true focus lies in making a tangible difference in the lives of people and communities, fostering growth, and inspiring the next generation of leaders. His vision for a future rooted in sustainable development, innovation, and social impact sets him apart as a changemaker.
The Kashvi Group initially made its mark in the iron ore trading and export sector, leveraging Odisha’s vast mineral resources. The group quickly gained recognition, setting benchmarks in the export of iron ore fines. Over the last decade, Kashvi Power & Steel has exported an impressive 45 million tonnes of iron ore fines through Paradip and Gopalpur ports, consistently ranking among India’s top exporters. In the fiscal year 2020-21 alone, the company exported 2.5 million tonnes, earning a distinguished position as the third-largest exporter in the country.
Expanding its footprint in the mining industry, Kashvi acquired virgin iron ore mines in Odisha, including the Doltapahar mines in Sundergarh and the Jaribahal iron ore block in Keonjhar. The Jaribahal block, covering 106.53 hectares with an estimated reserve of 71.5 million tonnes, solidifies Kashvi’s dominance in the mining sector. These acquisitions guarantee a steady supply of high-grade ore for its downstream operations, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing dependency on external sources.
To further capitalize on its mineral resources, the group ventured into ferro-alloy production by acquiring Modern India Con-Cast Limited through the NCLT process. This strategic move has enabled Kashvi to produce premium silicon-manganese and ferro-manganese alloys, aligning with the increasing demand for value-added products in the steel industry. The group’s use of manganese ore from its Silijora-Kalimati mines reflects its commitment to an integrated and self-sustaining operational model. Additionally, the acquisition of Ganesh Sponge Iron Pvt. Ltd. has helped the group produce high-quality direct reduced iron (DRI), further strengthening its position in the steel value chain.
The Kashvi Group’s vision extends beyond mining and manufacturing into retail, hospitality, and education, leaving a lasting imprint on Keonjhar’s socio-economic landscape. The Kashvi Taj Mall, one of Odisha’s largest shopping complexes, offers a modern retail experience to the region’s residents. The group’s venture into hospitality with Hotel Kashvi International demonstrates its commitment to creating world-class infrastructure for both tourists and business travelers.
Education remains central to the Kashvi Group’s social initiatives. The establishment of St. Xavier’s High School in Keonjhar has transformed the educational landscape, offering quality education to over 1,200 students, many from underprivileged backgrounds. The school emphasizes holistic development, reflecting the group’s dedication to nurturing future changemakers who can contribute meaningfully to society.
The Kashvi Group’s operations are deeply grounded in sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the group actively promotes environmental conservation through afforestation and pollution control measures. Over 15,000 trees have been planted across its operational areas in collaboration with the forest department, creating green belts that mitigate the environmental impact of mining activities. Dust suppression systems, regular air quality monitoring, and advanced waste management practices further demonstrate the group’s commitment to ecological stewardship.
In addition to its environmental initiatives, Kashvi is dedicated to improving the quality of life for communities in its areas of operation. It provides essential amenities such as safe drinking water, bore wells, electricity, and ambulance services to neighboring villages. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group played a crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of its employees and local communities by supplying oxygen cylinders and adhering to stringent safety protocols. Contributions to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund and disaster relief efforts highlight the group’s ethos of responsible corporate citizenship.
At the heart of the Kashvi Group’s success is the dynamic leadership of Er. Debabrata Behera, supported by Mrs. Susmita Behera. With over two decades of experience in the steel and power industry, Er. Behera exemplifies a rare combination of technical expertise and visionary thinking. His leadership has propelled the group toward achieving remarkable milestones while fostering a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusivity.
Mrs. Susmita Behera complements this vision with her strategic insights and commitment to community welfare, ensuring that the group’s growth translates into tangible benefits for society. Together, they have steered the Kashvi Group toward becoming a symbol of productivity, sustainability, and social impact.
As Kashvi Power & Steel Pvt. Ltd. continues to expand its footprint, its focus remains unwavering on fostering industrial innovation, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic upliftment. The group’s efforts are not only about building a successful business but about creating a legacy of empowerment, where progress is inclusive, and benefits are shared across communities.
With its roots firmly entrenched in Odisha’s soil and a vision set on global horizons, the Kashvi Group is poised to redefine the future of mining and allied industries while staying true to its core values of responsibility and sustainability. In the years to come, it will undoubtedly continue to be a changemaker, setting new standards of excellence and contributing to a better world.
