Odisha’s Mining Future: Time for Bold Steps to Unlock Hidden Treasure
0
0
Odisha is rich in minerals, especially bauxite, iron ore, and coal. The country’s rich natural resources have not helped the state make much progress. In recent years, those in the know say bold actions are needed to make this potential truly benefit society – more jobs, stronger industries, and overall growth for everyone.
The urgent appeal was circulated during the release of a white paper called “Mining Odisha’s Potential: Powering India’s Ambition for Self-Reliance and Economic Growth.” An Initiative for Development & Empowerment has prepared a report outlining how Odisha can turn raw minerals into industry inputs and generate profits.
Odisha’s Big Advantage – But Underused
Iron ore makes up 35% of India’s total reserves in Odisha, while it has 59% of the country’s bauxite and large stores of coal, manganese, and chromite. We need these minerals to help build roads and houses, drive factories, generate energy, and for defense.
Still, the majority of Odisha’s exports consist of raw materials to other countries or states. Companies turn them into goods, earn large profits, and do not bring Odisha real gains like jobs, nearby industries, and additional income.
Speaking at the presentation, Dr. Jayadev Sarangi said that Odisha needs to act now before it’s too late. We must use what we have in nature to boost the well-being of our people. We want to give our next generation both valuable minerals and meaningful opportunities.
What’s Stopping the Progress?
The white paper points out some issues in the technology.
- Bauxite remains largely unused: Kalahandi contains a lot of it, yet it sees little use. Applying it wisely will enable more than 10,000 small businesses to thrive, help produce 24 lakh (2.4 million) jobs, and bring in huge investments.
- Long lists of rules and many delays are involved in getting approval to mine or build new industrial areas. It lets investors go elsewhere.
- Another state gets the result: Odisha gives its resources away, but the work and earnings stay elsewhere. It’s a significant loss.
- Damages to roads, railways, and assembly plants in mining areas: This is one of the main reasons growth is slow growth.
What Can Odisha Learn from Other States?
Even if states like Gujarat and Maharashtra lack natural resources, they have moved forward quickly. They tried to develop industries, bring in investor-friendly laws, and help companies flourish. Odisha has much to draw from its approach, allowing it to find a unique route to development.
A Three-Step Plan to Unlock Odisha’s Mining Power
According to the white paper, the project will happen in three distinct, successive phases.
1. Short-Term (1–2 years)
- Improve the auction process so it goes faster and is more open.
- Simplify the process by handling applications from start to end at one spot.
- Monitor what happens underground, maintain honesty in data and comply with environmental regulations using technology.
2. Medium-Term (3–5 years)
- Set up paths for minerals to transport mining areas to ports and factories.
- Help companies that use minerals in their processes, including aluminium and steel factories.
- Back small businesses by offering them support in learning, getting money and setting up facilities.
3. Long-Term (6–10 years)
- Convert Odisha into a leading area for green aluminium and steel, using eco-friendly power.
- Look for and produce mineral resources that support technology and military work.
- Introduce research and training centers that will improve techniques and provide trained individuals for mining.
Strong Leadership Can Make It Happen
People believe that Mohan Charan Majhi, as the new Odisha Chief Minister, can bring about these changes. People with expertise in development say that good leadership and proper policies could help Odisha exploit its mineral assets.
That said, it won’t happen easily. The government ought to guide tough choices, focus on environmentally friendly building, and deliver both money and benefits to communities whose lives are affected by mining.
Helping India Become Self-Reliant
To become Atma Nirbhar, Odisha’s minerals may greatly benefit India. Between industry, green energy, and defense, Odisha is equipped to help India develop.
Still, we are running out of time. According to the report, there’s more to consider than just money here. It’s focused on justice, fairness, and allowing each Odia the option to flourish and become successful.
Final Thoughts
Odisha uniquely finds itself in a great position. Thanks to reform, its mining industry can now attract businesses, workers, and greater progress. Rather than just giving raw materials, it can now spearhead environmentally friendly, smart, and fair growth. Therefore, the state must start taking strong steps as soon as possible.
