NEW DELHI, India — Steel industry veteran Jatinder Mehra passed away on Wednesday in New Delhi, marking the end of a distinguished career that helped shape India’s metals and mining sector for more than six decades.
Mehra was widely respected for his deep technical expertise, strategic insight, and ability to translate ambitious ideas into large-scale, operational projects that defined modern steelmaking in the country.
He served as vice chairman of the metals and mining division at Essar Group, where he played a central role in guiding the group’s steel and metals businesses. During his tenure, he was instrumental in shaping long-term strategy and expanding steelmaking capacity, including major developments at Hazira.
In a condolence message, the Essar family expressed deep sorrow over his passing, remembering him as a visionary leader whose clarity, commitment, and leadership helped define some of the group’s most important milestones.
“The Essar family is deeply saddened by the passing of Jatinder Mehra, a respected veteran of India’s steel industry and a leader whose vision charted some of our most significant milestones at Essar Group,” the statement said.
The family noted that his contributions remain deeply embedded in Essar’s journey and that his legacy will continue to guide the organisation in the years ahead.
At Essar, Mehra also led the development of large integrated steel projects, including the Paradip steel facility in Odisha, strengthening the group’s presence in the global steel market.
Before joining Essar, he held several senior positions in India’s public sector steel industry. He served as executive director at Steel Authority of India Limited and later as chairman-cum-managing director of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited.
During his tenure at RINL, he oversaw the commissioning of the Vizag Steel Plant, a landmark project for India’s steel sector.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to the industry, the Indian Steel Association honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.
Colleagues and peers often described Mehra as a mentor and thought leader who shaped generations of professionals through guidance, discipline, and inspiration.
He is survived by his family and a wide community of professionals who had the privilege of working with him. His passing is being mourned across the steel industry as India bids farewell to one of its most respected and influential leaders.
If you want this tightened further or cut to wire length, say the word. (Source: IANS)
