TV
Delays in environmental clearance are obstructing mining operations in Odisha. With only 24 out of a total of 44 auctioned mines currently operational, the delays are raising concerns over revenue and sustainable development in mineral-rich regions.
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According to sources, environmental clearance has become a major bottleneck in mining operations across the State. Following the introduction of the new Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation (MMDR) Act, 44 mines have been auctioned in the State.
However, due to delays in securing environmental clearance, only 24 mines—those earlier operational or re-auctioned—have become functional, while 20 still remain inactive.
This delay is gradually impacting the State's mining revenue. Highlighting the issue at a white paper release event hosted by the social welfare organisation AIDENT on Odisha’s mineral potential in the context of a self-reliant and prosperous India, former Additional Director of Mines Dr. Umesh Jena noted the adverse effects of these delays.
Former administrative officer Dr. Jayadev Sarangi also emphasised that while promoting industrial and mining zone development, focus should shift from merely employing locals to empowering them as employment generators themselves.
Professor Sipra Sagarika added that tribal communities have long played a crucial role in protecting the mineral resources. Therefore, mining activities in their regions must be carried out in a manner that safeguards their culture and traditions.
DMF funds hindered development: Experts
Economic experts at the event pointed out that the lack of effective management of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds has hindered the development of mining-affected areas.
“If we carry out mining activities or set up industries in the underdeveloped areas where particularly marginalised sections or tribals are residing, the locals will still remain poor if we offer them low-level jobs. When we recruit them as drivers for tippers, why not better support them and make them tipper owners. So that they can become job providers rather than being job-seekers,” Dr. Jayadev Sarangi opined.
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“It is a matter of great concern that we had 629 leases around two decades ago, of which over 400 leases were then operational. Graphite, quartz, and china clay mines, which were functional in Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Koraput districts, have now closed down as they could not obtain forest clearance and other clearances,” Dr. Umesh Jena stated.
