Rajkumar Goel Forging Success in India’s Steel Industry

In 2019, India achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the world’s second-largest steel producer, outpacing Japan. The country’s steel sector, home to over 50 large steel plants and 650 MSMEs, is a significant contributor to its economic growth. At the forefront of this dynamic industry is SLR Metaliks Pvt Ltd, a company that has consistently played a pivotal role in India’s steel production.

The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins:

Rajkumar Goel, the Founder and Managing Director of SLR Metaliks, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with humble origins. Armed with a Class 10 education, he took his first step into the business world by setting up a plastic re-processing unit in Jajjhar, Haryana, with a modest investment from his father.

While the plastic re-processing venture faced challenges, Rajkumar’s resilience led him to explore other opportunities. He transitioned into the packaging sector, supplying pouches to milk brands in Delhi, enabling doorstep milk deliveries. Yet, his quest for entrepreneurial success was far from over.

A Fiery Setback:

In the 1990s, Rajkumar ventured into the manufacturing of cement bags and achieved substantial success, supplying renowned brands like Birla Cement. However, a devastating factory fire forced him to revaluate his business path.

Discovering the Steel Industry:

Recognizing the potential of the steel industry, Rajkumar and his brother, Naresh Goel, founded SLR Metaliks Pvt Ltd in 2005. Their journey into steel manufacturing was marked by precision technology and a vision to cater to the automotive sector.

Precision and Quality:

Situated in Ballari, Karnataka, SLR Metaliks specializes in the production of alloy steel, demanding precision and cutting-edge technology. The company aims to replace imported special-grade steels with cost-effective and environmentally friendly in-house production.

Over 15 years, SLR Metaliks has become a market leader in steel manufacturing, boasting an annual turnover of Rs 1,216 crore. The company is dedicated to environmental sustainability, utilizing renewable energies and innovative technologies.

Supplying to India’s Elite:

SLR Metaliks supplies raw materials for automobiles to OEMs and has maintained strong competition with its peers. With more than 86 grades and sizes of special alloy steel, it serves top automobile companies, Indian Railways, and the defence sector.

Despite initial challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian steel sector witnessed a revival. India’s steel production grew by 20 percent in July 2021, reflecting the industry’s resilience.

Looking ahead, Rajkumar Goel envisions SLR Metaliks expanding its production capacity, striving to become a leading producer of alloy steel in the Asia-Pacific region by 2025. The company remains committed to innovation and sustainability, with plans to harness solar power for its operations.

Rajkumar Goel’s remarkable journey from a small plastic re-processing unit to the helm of SLR Metaliks showcases the power of determination and adaptability. With a focus on precision, innovation, and sustainability, he has not only propelled his company to great heights but has also contributed to India’s growth in the global steel industry. As SLR Metaliks continues to evolve and expand, Rajkumar’s entrepreneurial spirit remains the driving force behind its success.