Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday urged the state-owned Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) to expand its operations beyond Odisha and explore opportunities across the country, while emphasizing the need to balance its activities with environmental protection.
CM's Address at Foundation Day
Addressing the 71st foundation day function of OMC in Bhubaneswar, Majhi said the corporation must now widen its operational scope and venture into mining activities in other states. “With abundant raw material reserves and proven expertise, the corporation should focus on both mining and value-driven industrialization,” he stated. He added that OMC must continue its focus on safe practices, environmental sustainability, and the welfare of communities in mining areas.
OMC's Contribution to Odisha's Economy
The Chief Minister noted that for more than seven decades, OMC has not just functioned as a commercial organization but has emerged as a key pillar of Odisha’s economic development. “It has consistently contributed a hefty share of dividends to the state exchequer,” Majhi said, adding that responsible utilization of mineral resources has contributed to the state’s growth.
Future Opportunities and Vision 2036
Highlighting future opportunities, the CM said OMC’s successful pilot project for extraction of Platinum Group Elements from the Bangur chromite mine in Keonjhar district will open new avenues. “This initiative will help strengthen the supply of critical base metals required for clean energy, electronics, and automobile manufacturing sectors,” he explained. Majhi added that OMC would play a crucial role in achieving the state’s 2036 vision.
New Initiatives Launched
During the event, Majhi inaugurated several initiatives, including the permanent campus of Odisha Mining Adarsha Vidyalaya at Kaliapani, eight advanced life support ambulances for mining areas, an integrated management and monitoring centre, and a digital health management system named ‘O-Swasthya’.
Development Commissioner's Remarks
Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary D K Singh, who attended the function, lauded OMC’s contribution to industrial growth and stressed the need to further align its operations with broader development. “The focus should now be on maximizing benefits from mining for both the state and country,” he said.
