Students of the KIIT School of Management, KIIT University, participated in an enriching industrial visit to Nilima Associates Pvt. Ltd. and Maithan Ispat Limited at Kalinga Nagar, Jajpur, Odisha, on 10 January 2026.

The visit offered students a valuable opportunity to witness the real-world application of management and manufacturing concepts learned in the classroom. Furthermore, the experience helped students understand how these concepts work in actual industrial settings.

A total of 34 students from BBA 3rd Year, MBA 1st Year, and MBA 2nd Year took part in the visit. Dr. Priti Ranjan Sahoo, Professor, and Dr. Girish Chandra Dey, Assistant Professor of KIIT School of Management, guided the students throughout the visit.

The initiative also received encouragement from Prof. (Dr.) Kumar Mohanty, Director, KSOM. This support reinforced the school’s commitment to experiential learning.

Insightful Visit to Nilima Associates Pvt. Ltd.

The visit commenced at Nilima Associates Pvt. Ltd. The students received a warm welcome from Mr. Dharmanshu Pandey, Managing Director of the company and an alumnus of KSOM (MBA 2020–22).

Mr. Pandey shared his journey from iron ore trading to establishing Odisha’s first advanced Pre-Engineered Buildings and Heavy Structure Steel manufacturing plant. His journey provided an inspiring example of entrepreneurial success.

During the plant tour, students explored the complete production workflow. They observed each stage, from the procurement of raw materials to the manufacturing of finished steel components.

In addition, the students observed advanced cutting, rolling, shaping, and finishing processes. The plant uses a combination of automation and semi-automation for these processes.

As a result, students gained practical insights into how modern technology can enhance efficiency, precision, and cost optimization.

Exposure to Large-Scale Operations at Maithan Ispat Limited

The group then proceeded to Maithan Ispat Limited, an integrated steel manufacturing facility. There, students gained firsthand exposure to large-scale steel production.

The visit covered various stages of production. Students observed the preparation of raw materials, furnace operations, refining processes, and final casting of steel products.

A key highlight of the visit was the plant’s emphasis on sustainable practices. The in-house power generation system demonstrated efficient resource utilization and environmentally responsible industrial operations.

The system utilizes water used in cooling processes to generate electricity. Therefore, the students could observe how industrial facilities can integrate resource-efficient practices into their operations.

Interactive Workshop and Learning Outcomes

Following the plant visits, Mr. Dharmanshu Pandey and his team conducted an interactive workshop and discussion session.

The session focused on several important areas. These included industry expectations, technological advancements, operational challenges, and career pathways in manufacturing and management.

Moreover, the interaction proved highly motivating for the students. It helped them bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry realities.

A Step Towards Industry-Ready Professionals

The industrial visit concluded as a memorable and impactful learning experience for the students. Throughout the visit, participants observed real-time industrial workflows, sustainable practices, and entrepreneurial leadership.

As a result, they gained deeper insights into the steel industry and modern manufacturing ecosystems.

Furthermore, such initiatives reaffirm KIIT School of Management’s commitment to holistic education. By integrating classroom learning with practical industry exposure, KSOM continues to nurture industry-ready and socially responsible future leaders.