Manda Rajananda K.

About Manda Rajananda K.

A PhD Scholar, Mechanical Engineering graduate with distinction from JNTU, Kakinada, M.R. Kumar brings over 30 years of diverse experience in engineering, design, and project execution across Rolling Mills, Blast Furnaces, PCI, and infrastructure—including strategic national missions.Currently Senior General Manager in the Iron Making Division and Head of the Refractories Department at MECON LIMITED, Ranchi, he began his journey in 1995 and has since contributed to several marquee projects. Notably, he was part of the core design team for ISRO’s Second Launch Pad—used for launching “Chandrayaan” and other satellites. He led project coordination for JSW Vijayanagar’s 5339 m³ greenfield BF under its 18 MTPA expansion and managed MBF & Sinter Plant setup for Jai Raj Ispat, Kurnool. An acclaimed professional, Shri Kumar has received numerous accolades: MECON’s appreciation during his first assignment at RSP Rourkela, the “Award of Excellence” from IIM, “Dr. Visvesvaraya Gold Medal 2015,” SAIL Awards (2017 & 2024), and “Eminent Engineer” recognition from IEI. A prolific technical author, he has received Best Paper Awards (3x IIM, 3x IEI Hindi). He holds a Master’s in Marketing Management, certifications from PMA (USA) in Project Management, and IPMA in Risk Management. He is also a certified ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor (TÜV) and member of MECON’s Corporate Risk Management Committee. Internationally exposed (Netherlands, Germany, China), he continues to upskill—completing courses from IIM Bangalore (Strategy & Sustainability) and IIT Roorkee (Financial Management).🤝 Actively involved in professional bodies—C.Eng (India), Member of IEI, IIM, IAEng, and currently External BoS Member, BIT Mesra. He has served as Honorary Secretary, IEI Jharkhand (2016–18) and Member Secretary, Ispat Club (2017–25). Passionate about steel, sustainability, and strategic growth.

Experience

1. In-charge, Refractories

   Mecon Limited, India

   Mar 2026 — Present

   Head of the Refractories Department

Education

• Pondicherry University

  Master of Marketing Management, Marketing

  2000 — 2002

• National Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Technology Ranchi (Formerly NIFFT)

  (Doctor of Philosophy - PhD), Environmental Engineering Technology/Environmental Technology

• Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada

  Bachelor of Technology - BTech, Mechanical Engineering

  1990 — 1994