Bhubaneswar: Abhay Kumar Behuria (DIN: 09694123) has officially assumed charge as the Director (Finance) on the Board of National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Mines, with effect from June 11, 2025.
A seasoned finance professional with over 30 years of experience in the public sector, Behuria brings with him a legacy of leadership, strategic foresight, and operational excellence, honed during his illustrious tenure at Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL).
Stellar Career Across Mines, Steel Plants & Finance
Prior to joining NALCO, Mr Behuria served as Executive Director (Finance & Accounts) at Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), SAIL’s flagship integrated steel plant with an annual turnover of approximately ₹28,000 crore. His extensive expertise spans Mines, Project Finance, and Integrated Steel Plants, having held pivotal roles that contributed to SAIL’s growth, digital transformation, and financial stability.
Educational Credentials & Professional Excellence
Mr Behuria holds a First-Class B.Com (Hons.) from Utkal University and is a Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI). He also holds an Executive Diploma in Business Valuation from the Board of Advanced Studies & Research of ICMAI. His distinguished contributions to the public sector were recognized with the Jawahar Award for 2013–14, one of SAIL’s highest individual honors.
Strategic and Digital Reforms at RSP
Behuria’s leadership at RSP was marked by impactful initiatives-
Played a strategic role in the development of Taldih Iron Ore Mines, targeting 7 MTPA output through the engagement of Mine Developer cum Operator (MDO).
Facilitated long-pending land dispute resolutions with Indian Railways, enabling execution of key siding projects at Gua Ore Mines.
Spearheaded revision of Standard Bidding Documents for SAIL projects.
As a core member of the SAIL Uday initiative, in partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Behuria helped steer SAIL’s operational and financial turnaround.
Driving Digital Transformation
He championed several technology-driven reforms, including-
- SAP implementation in mines.
- Introduction of Vendor Information System, File Tracking and Processing Systems, and Automated Invoicing Systems.
- These innovations greatly improved transparency, efficiency, and accountability across departments.
Financial Impact and Employee Empowerment
Under his guidance, RSP achieved record EBITDA and Profit Before Tax (PBT), even amidst market volatility. He also ensured NIL audit comments from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) on the plant’s accounts for three consecutive years.
Behuria has consistently emphasized employee upskilling and cost-consciousness, launching internal development programs like PRAYAAS and ADHIGAM, and conducting cost awareness workshops that improved organizational efficiency.
Poised to Strengthen NALCO’s Financial Leadership
With his proven track record, Mr Behuria’s appointment is expected to strengthen NALCO’s financial strategy and governance, especially as the company navigates opportunities in value-added aluminium production, sustainability, and global expansion.
NALCO
National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) is a Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Mines and one of the largest integrated bauxite–alumina–aluminium–power complexes in India. Headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, NALCO plays a key role in the nation’s aluminium production and exports, while promoting sustainable mining and industrial practices.
