Konark, Jan 20: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today stressed the need for sustainable mining practices and consumption-led mining to ensure that the state’s natural resources, though finite, can continue to fuel development for generations to come.
“Natural resources, especially minerals, are finite. We must find ways to make our mining activities sustainable without harming the environment,” he said.
Addressing the 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference at Konark, Majhi emphasized the state's critical role in India’s mining and industrial landscape.
The event, held at Konark, brought together prominent leaders from across the mining sector, including Union Minister of Coal & Mines G. Kishan Reddy, the Deputy Chief Ministers of Chhattisgarh and Telangana, Mines Ministers from 11 states, and key industry figures.
The CM also underlined Odisha’s crucial role in India’s journey toward becoming a "Viksit Bharat" (developed nation) by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Drawing attention to global shifts in energy production, he noted the success of India’s renewable energy push, exemplifying how development and environmental protection could coexist.
“We are well on track to meet our renewable energy goals, and Odisha will be a key player in the future of green hydrogen,” he added.
Reflecting on the state's mineral wealth, Majhi spoke of the significance of Keonjhar, his district, which is home to some of Odisha’s most valuable mineral deposits.
"Odisha is truly Ratnagarbha, a treasure trove of natural wealth,” he said, praising the state's contributions to India's economic progress.
Highlighting recent advancements in Odisha’s industrial sector, the Chief Minister noted the state’s growth from a single steel plant in Rourkela to over 30 major steel plants, earning it the title of the "Steel Capital of India."
He further projected that Odisha’s steel output would increase significantly by 2030, driven by the state’s pro-investment industrial policies and initiatives.
The CM also addressed concerns regarding industrialization and environmental protection, asserting that modern, greener technologies were transforming industries to be cleaner and more sustainable.
He cited the example of India’s success in solar power generation and its ambitious goal to achieve 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030, which, he said, “is a testament to Modi Ji’s leadership.”
On the subject of mining, Majhi called for more research and development in the sector, particularly in the use of modern technologies such as drones and Artificial Intelligence to reduce costs and minimize environmental impact.
He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that local communities living around mining areas benefit from the state’s mineral wealth, urging that both state and industry players focus on the socio-economic welfare of these communities.
The Chief Minister invited stakeholders to contribute to Odisha’s ongoing industrial transformation.
He also outlined the state’s vision for the future, setting an ambitious goal to achieve "Samruddha Odisha" (prosperous Odisha) by 2036, marking the centenary of the state's formation.
“The dream of a developed India by 2047 requires the collective effort of every state. Odisha is committed to playing a central role in that journey,” Majhi said.
