Nilachal Refractories Ltd (NRL), formerly known as Ipitata Refractories Ltd., was incorporated in 1977 and is engaged in the refractories business. The company, initially promoted by Alok Prakash, experienced a significant shift in management after being declared a sick company under SICA provisions in 2001, leading to its reference to the BIFR. Following a BIFR order in 2005, the IJ Group from Kolkata took over management, implementing a rehabilitation scheme that included renovating the company's facilities in Dhenkanal and reviving operations.
A notable development in NRL's history was its joint venture with TISCO, which enhanced the quality of its Bogie Bottom Pouring refractories, crucial for producing cleaner steel. The Tata Group, as former promoters, transferred their 51.8% stake to the new promoters as per BIFR directives. With a renewed focus on quality and operational efficiency, NRL continues its legacy within the refractories sector, especially as steel production capacity expands in Odisha.
