Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: Er. Debabrata Behera—a name that resonates through the corridors of Odisha’s industrial and social spheres. Known for his sharp business acumen and deep-rooted commitment to the community, Er. Behera has carved out a unique legacy as a transformative leader. As the Managing Director of Kashvi Group of Companies, his journey from a small-town boy in Keonjhar to one of the most influential industrialists in Odisha is a story of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in sustainable growth. His name is not just synonymous with success but with a responsibility to uplift society alongside his thriving ventures.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in the culturally rich district of Keonjhar, Odisha, Debabrata Behera’s formative years were shaped by the values of hard work and education. His fascination with construction and infrastructure development led him to Hindustan College of Engineering, Chennai, where he completed his B.Tech in Civil Engineering in 1990. This strong foundation in engineering became the cornerstone of his future endeavors as an industrialist.
The Industrial Pioneer
After his early professional stint with Orissa Sponge Iron Ltd. in 1991, where he worked in operations and plant management, Er. Behera quickly ascended through the ranks of the industry. By 2001, he had taken up the mantle of Director at Kusum Powermet Pvt. Ltd., steering the company’s expansion in the production of sponge iron. However, his true entrepreneurial spirit came to life in 2010, with the establishment of Kashvi Power & Steel Private Limited.
Under Er. Behera’s visionary leadership, Kashvi Group quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of India’s leading exporters of iron ore fines. His strategic decisions and innovation helped the company record a remarkable turnover of ₹535 crores by the financial year 2013-14, with exports soaring across global markets. From securing key iron ore blocks like Dholtapahad to acquiring significant assets such as Modern India Con-Cast Limited, Er. Behera’s initiatives have cemented Kashvi Group’s place as a frontrunner in India’s industrial sector.
Expanding Horizons: Diversification and Growth
Er. Behera’s success is not limited to mining and iron ore exports. His ability to diversify into new sectors has been one of his greatest strengths. Through the acquisition of plants and mines across West Bengal and Odisha, Kashvi Group has ventured into ferroalloys and silicon manganese production, further streamlining its operations with vertically integrated business models. This diversification has allowed the group to grow exponentially, utilizing raw materials from its own mines and ensuring steady production across its plants.
A Champion for Social Responsibility
For Er. Behera, business success is incomplete without giving back to society. His commitment to education and community welfare is reflected in his founding of St. Xavier’s High School in Keonjhar in 2005. The school, which provides quality education to over 1,200 students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, is a shining example of his dedication to empowering the next generation.
Equally impressive is his work with the ADRUTA Children Home, where he provides support and care to orphaned children in Keonjhar. Er. Behera’s philanthropic footprint extends to rural development projects, where he has been instrumental in providing essential services like clean drinking water, electricity, and infrastructure improvements to underserved areas.
Sustainability and the Future
A forward-thinking industrialist, Er. Behera has made sustainability a core pillar of his business philosophy. Kashvi Group’s environmental initiatives, including large-scale afforestation projects and eco-friendly mining practices, demonstrate his commitment to reducing the environmental impact of industrial activities. By aligning his company’s operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he has set a new standard for sustainable business in the region.
As Er. Behera continues to steer Kashvi Group towards greater success, he leads a workforce of 800 employees with one aim: to make a difference. His focus on productivity and quality reinforces the foundation upon which he builds his industrial and philanthropic ventures. Er. Debabrata Behera’s journey is a blend of innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his community. His rise from a civil engineer to a key player in Odisha’s industrial and social landscape is a story of perseverance and vision. His legacy is not just one of economic growth but also of a genuine commitment to creating a sustainable, inclusive future for Odisha and beyond.
