Biography
Lakshmi Niwas Mittal, born on 15 June 1950 in Rajasthan, is the Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal, one of the world’s leading steel and mining companies. Often called the “King of Steel,” Mittal is known for transforming a family steel business into a truly global industrial powerhouse.
After graduating from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, Mittal began his career in his family’s steel business. In 1976, he moved to Indonesia and set up his first steel plant, beginning a journey of international expansion and strategic acquisitions.
A defining moment came in 2006, when Mittal Steel merged with Arcelor to create ArcelorMittal, bringing together major steel operations across multiple continents. His approach helped drive greater global consolidation and modernisation across the steel industry.
Mittal has received several major honours, including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. Beyond business, he and his wife Usha Mittal have supported education, healthcare and social causes through initiatives involving institutions such as LNMIIT, Harvard, UNICEF and the University of Oxford.
Family & Legacy
Lakshmi Mittal’s son Aditya Mittal became CEO of ArcelorMittal in 2021, while Lakshmi Mittal continues as Executive Chairman. His journey reflects how Indian entrepreneurship can grow beyond borders and build a lasting presence in the global industrial economy.