In a solemn and historic ceremony held on the evening of May 22, Surajit Mishra, Director In-charge (Burnpur & Durgapur Steel Plant), unveiled a bronze bust of Sir Biren Mookerjee at Burnpur, paying tribute to one of the foremost pioneers of Indian industry and the architect of erstwhile IISCO (Indian Iron & Steel Company) which is today known as IISCO Steel Plant under SAIL.

The ceremony was attended by senior officials, employees, and a large number of residents and admirers.

On the occasion, Mishra also unveiled a plaque formally renaming the adjoining square as “Sir Biren Mookerjee Square.” Paying homage to the legendary industrialist, Mishra remarked that it was a matter of great privilege for him to unveil the bust of a visionary whose contribution to Burnpur and Indian steel industry was immense and long deserving of such recognition.

Sir Biren Mookerjee is remembered as the driving force behind the remarkable growth of the Indian Iron & Steel Company (IISCO), which later evolved into the present-day IISCO Steel Plant under Steel Authority of India Limited.

Under his leadership, Burnpur emerged as one of the most prominent industrial townships of eastern India and became synonymous with steelmaking excellence.

A distinguished industrialist and nationalist entrepreneur, Sir Biren Mookerjee played a pioneering role in strengthening India’s indigenous steel industry during the pre- and post-Independence era.

He was closely associated with several major industrial and engineering initiatives in the country and was widely respected for his vision, institution-building capability, and commitment to industrial self-reliance.

Reflecting the deep emotional connect of the people of Burnpur with Sir Biren Mookerjee’s legacy, a large number of citizens have been demanding to rename city as “Birenpur” in his honour.