Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has partnered with Captain Steel to launch a Rs 2,500 crore steel manufacturing facility in Garbeta, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal. The greenfield project, which will have a production capacity of 0.8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), is expected to begin operations within 18 to 20 months.
Ganguly highlighted that while many assume such projects can be completed quickly, multiple regulatory approvals must be obtained before construction and operations begin. These include environmental clearances, pollution control approvals, and other government permissions. Once these processes are completed, the facility will be ready for operation within the projected timeline.
Initially planned for Salboni, the project was relocated to Garbeta due to challenges in acquiring suitable land. The new location, approximately 26 kilometres from Salboni, has been finalised, and the land acquisition process is ongoing. Captain Steel has confirmed they are securing the necessary approvals to move forward. The plant will require around 350 acres, making it a significant addition to the region's industrial sector.
Captain Steel operates two plants with a combined annual production capacity of 5 lakh tonnes. The new facility will add 8 lakh tonnes, increasing the company's total capacity to 1.3 million tonnes per annum. The expansion is expected to meet growing demand in the construction and infrastructure industries while reinforcing the company's position in the steel sector.
Beyond production, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to industrial development in West Bengal. The state government has been actively promoting manufacturing investments, and this initiative aligns with its broader economic objectives. The project was first announced during West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to Spain in 2023. At the 2025 Global Investment Summit, Banerjee acknowledged Ganguly's involvement in industrial ventures, marking his transition from cricket administration to business.
Although Sourav Ganguly's exact financial stake in the venture remains undisclosed, sources suggest his involvement is significant. As the project moves forward, it is expected to support West Bengal's manufacturing industry, attract additional investment, and contribute to long-term economic growth in the region.
