Jindal Stainless and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) have renewed their Lubricants Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) partnership for a further period of five years. The agreement reinforces the long-standing association between the two organisations, focusing on reliable supply solutions for industrial operations.

The formal signing ceremony took place at Jindal Stainless' Hisar unit. Key attendees included Hemant Rathore, Executive Director, Northern Region & State Head, DSO at Indian Oil, and Vijay Bindlish, Unit Head - Hisar at Jindal Stainless.

Strategic collaboration details

Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director of Jindal Stainless, highlighted that the renewal reflects the value of sustained collaboration between two organisations with a shared focus on quality, reliability, and technical excellence. He noted that the extended arrangement provides an opportunity to deepen engagement as industry needs evolve.

Hemant Rathore from Indian Oil stated that the renewal of the Consumer's Operated Lube Depot's (COLD) agreement marks an important milestone. He emphasised that Indian Oil caters to Jindal Stainless' energy requirements through supplies of LDO, HSD, LSHS, and Propane, in addition to lubricants. This breadth of supply underscores the depth of the association, built on mutual trust and reliability.

Operational significance

The renewed partnership supports manufacturing continuity by ensuring dependable lubrication and energy solutions. As industrial operations increasingly prioritise equipment reliability and operational efficiency, such arrangements play a critical role in maintaining performance standards.

Company profile snapshot

Jindal Stainless, India's leading stainless steel manufacturer, operates integrated facilities to enhance cost competitiveness. The company utilises electric arc furnace technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support scrap recyclability. Its product range includes stainless steel slabs, blooms, coils, plates, sheets, precision strips, wire rods, rebars, blade steel, and coin blanks.

Jindal Stainless has supplied more than 160 tonnes of stainless steel to structurally reinforce Sadhana Bhawan, a six-decade-old meditation hall at Shri Kripalu Dham in Mangarh, Uttar Pradesh. The project aims to strengthen the 1965 structure without altering its original architectural character.

Structural reinforcement details

The reinforcement approach focused on strengthening the structure from within rather than rebuilding it. The new stainless steel system is designed to share the load with the original structure, providing additional strength while preserving the experience for devotees. Jindal Stainless facilitated this supply through its subsidiary, Jindal Stainless Steelway Limited (JSSL).

The material used was Hot Rolled Annealed and Pickled (HRAP) plates of Stainless Steel grade 304L, manufactured at Jindal Stainless plants. Grade 304L was selected for its suitability in indoor, non-marine environments, offering a combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. Its high strength-to-weight ratio enabled the reinforcement to provide required support without adding unnecessary bulk.

Project collaboration and significance

The project was undertaken in collaboration with the Jagat Guru Kripalu Parishad team, which served as the design consultant, and Vats Group, responsible for fabrication and installation. Jindal Stainless served as the material and technical partner. The fabrication flexibility of the material facilitated its integration with the existing structure while meeting preservation requirements.

Shri Kripalu Dham, founded in 1965 by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, is a spiritual centre drawing devotees from across India and the world. The campus includes the marble Bhakti Mandir and a charitable hospital. Sadhana Bhawan, the campus' meditation and assembly hall, has hosted large congregations over the years.

Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director, Jindal Stainless, stated that the project demonstrates how advanced stainless steel solutions can strengthen ageing structures while preserving their original character. He highlighted the company's commitment to enabling durable, long-term solutions through stainless steel.