Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Friday, praised the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) for its significant contribution to the state’s development. Speaking on the occasion of its 70th Foundation Day, the CM emphasized the corporation’s role in driving revenue, employment, and community welfare through responsible mining practices.
According to him, OMC has now become one of the most prestigious mining PSUs in the country and plays a vital role in Odisha’s economic progress.
“Odisha Mining Corporation has been a key pillar in the development of Odisha. On its Foundation Day, I extend my best wishes to all employees, workers, and stakeholders. OMC has emerged as a pride of the state and ranks among the top mining PSUs in the country with a turnover worth Rs 23600 Crores.We have envisioned expanding its operations, strengthening enforcement against illegal mining, boosting employment, and enhancing CSR initiatives in education, healthcare, and sports,” Majhi said.
He further highlighted the state government’s efforts to curb illegal mining and ensure sustainable and transparent practices in the mining sector. The chief minister also stressed on expanding OMC’s outreach in tribal and rural areas through improved infrastructure and services.
“Our focus is on sustainable mining, people-centric development, and making OMC a model for responsible resource management in India,” he added.
Odisha’s steel and mines minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena highlighted the corporation’s pivotal role in the state’s development and called for a renewed commitment to ethical, legal, and people-centric mining practices.
“Even after seventy years, success in mining depends on responsible minds. If we have a legal mind, we must ensure only legal mining happens in Odisha. We are not in the mining sector just for business or profit. Our aim is to serve the people. We will strengthen our CSR outreach and create more employment opportunities, especially for the youth. OMC will also invest in developing model schools and sports infrastructure in mining-affected areas,” the minister said.
He also informed that a new platform will soon be launched to streamline logistics and increase transparency in mine management. The government will revisit old, closed mines and consider their reopening after thorough legal and environmental scrutiny.
“The chief minister is deeply concerned that despite resource-rich areas, many local people remain unemployed. Our department is determined to change this scenario with skill development and orientation programs in mining regions. Establishing industries near mines is also on the agenda,” he said.
