Smita Mishra 
Sh. Vijay Chand, a distinguished leader in the power sector, is currently spearheading the 2×660 MW expansion project at NTPC Talcher Thermal. With over 35 years of experience in subcritical and supercritical power projects, Sh. Chand has established himself as a champion of innovation and operational excellence. We had the privilege of engaging in a comprehensive conversation with Sh. Chand, exploring his vision, leadership approach, and the future of the power sector.
A Distinguished Career
Sh. Chand’s academic background is rooted in engineering, having graduated from Bhagalpur University. His professional journey has been marked by numerous milestones, including leadership roles in various NTPC projects and stations. Prior to his current position as Head of Project at NTPC Talcher Thermal, Sh. Chand served as Head of Decommissioning Activities at Badarpur Thermal Power Plant, Head of O&M at Darlipali Super Thermal Power Project (2×800 MW), and Head of O&M at Meja Super Thermal Power Project (2×660 MW).
Key Achievements
Throughout his career, Sh. Chand has demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise, achieving numerous notable milestones. Some of his key achievements include:
– Revitalizing NTPC Talcher Thermal, resolving critical challenges related to boundary management, ash disposal, and infrastructure development within just four to five months of taking charge.
– Leading the decommissioning of Badarpur Thermal Power Station and playing a key role in initiating India’s largest Eco Park at Badarpur, a pioneering sustainability project.
– Ensuring uninterrupted power generation at Darlipali during the 2021 coal crisis, achieving record-breaking operational efficiency.
– Maintaining project stability during COVID-19, ensuring the Commercial Operation Declaration of Unit 2 at Meja (660 MW) and preventing the JV from becoming an NPA.
– Establishing world-class maintenance systems and procedures at MUNPL Meja (2×660 MW), achieving 100% dry ash utilization—a challenging task for new units.
– Contributing to the commissioning of 4×210 MW at Kahalgaon, demonstrating technical excellence and teamwork.
Incorporating AI and Advanced Technologies
When asked about incorporating AI in the power station, Sh. Chand emphasized that while AI’s role is currently limited, the plant is leveraging advanced technologies to enhance safety, security, and efficiency. He highlighted the use of cameras with analytical capabilities, drones for safety monitoring, and AI-powered training modules for workers.
Safety and Efficiency
Sh. Chand stressed the importance of safety and efficiency in TTPS’s operations, citing the implementation of advanced safety systems, regular training programs, and a strong safety culture. He also discussed the plant’s environmental initiatives, including the use of ultra-super critical units, electrostatic precipitators, and flue gas desulphurisation systems.
Environmental Sustainability
Talcher Thermal has taken significant steps towards decarbonization at Talcher Stage III by implementing advanced technologies and sustainable practices. Ultra SuperCritical Units are being installed at Talcher Thermal which has significantly less carbon emissions compared to traditional sub-critical units. To control air pollution, we have deployed state-of-the-art Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP) with an efficiency of over 99%, ensuring minimal particulate emissions. Additionally, the incorporation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) will help in reducing Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) emissions, improving air quality. The plant is also focusing on sustainable ash handling by adopting mine void filling and dry ash collection, which minimizes environmental impact.
Social Responsibility Initiatives
The conversation also touched upon TTPS’s social responsibility initiatives, including healthcare programs, women empowerment projects, skill development initiatives, and infrastructure development. Sh. Chand emphasized the plant’s commitment to supporting the local community and promoting sustainable development.
Community Engagement
TTPS is committed to community engagement and sustainable development through both awareness programs and structured initiatives that drive long-term impact. We promote community participation through Rural Sports Meets, Swachhata Drives, Medical Camps, and Cultural & Social Events, fostering well-being, hygiene, and local traditions. Additionally, we conduct Need Assessment Surveys (NAS) and Stakeholder Meetings to address community needs, while Village Development Committees and Social Impact Surveys ensure effective implementation of projects.
Economic Development
Sh. Chand discussed TTPS’s contributions to the economic development of the region, including generating employment opportunities, supporting skill development, and promoting local businesses. A key focus area is local employment, where Talcher thermal prioritizes hiring from nearby communities for its projects, ensuring sustainable livelihood.
Embracing Innovation and Sustainability
Sh. Chand’s emphasis on innovation and sustainability is reflected in TTPS’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The plant has implemented various initiatives aimed at minimizing waste, conserving water, and promoting eco-friendly practices.
When asked about TTPS’s plans for expansion or modernization, Sh. Chand revealed that a pre-feasibility study is underway to explore the possibility of installing an additional 800/660 MW unit. He also highlighted the plant’s efforts to promote renewable energy sources, including the installation of rooftop solar panels and the exploration of solar energy projects.
Empowering Communities
TTPS’s commitment to community development is evident in its various social responsibility initiatives. The plant has implemented programs aimed at promoting education, healthcare, and women empowerment, as well as providing support for infrastructure development and livelihood generation.
Sh. Chand emphasized the importance of community engagement and participation in TTPS’s social responsibility initiatives. He highlighted the plant’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability, ensuring that its social responsibility initiatives are aligned with the needs and aspirations of the local community.
A Legacy of Leadership
As our conversation with Sh. Chand came to a close, it was clear that his legacy as a leader extends far beyond his impressive professional achievements. His commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development serves as a powerful inspiration to professionals and organizations alike.
As we look to the future, it is clear that leaders like Sh. Chand will play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and innovative world. His story serves as a reminder that true leadership is not just about achieving success, but about making a lasting impact on the world around us.
