Odisha's Chief Minister Calls for Boost in Iron Ore Production Amid Industrial Growth

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has called on mining leaseholders and industries to increase iron ore production to meet the rising demands of the state's industrial sector. During a recent meeting, he assured full government support for mining activities and encouraged the establishment of manufacturing facilities in mineral-rich districts. The meeting included prominent industry leaders and highlighted the state's goal of producing 100 million tonnes of steel annually by 2030. This initiative aims to bolster the local economy while addressing the needs of communities affected by mining.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 20:22 IST

Strengthening Odisha's Mining Sector

Bhubaneswar: On Tuesday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the need for mining leaseholders and industries to ramp up mineral output to satisfy the increasing demand for iron ore, driven by the state's swift industrial development.

During a high-level meeting with mining stakeholders and industrial leaders, Majhi pledged the government's unwavering support for mining operations.

He urged for a boost in production and dispatch, adhering to the minimum requirements set forth in the Mine Development and Production Agreement (MDPA), and advocated for the establishment of manufacturing units in the mineral-rich regions of the state.

Highlighting the scarcity of industries in these areas, the chief minister encouraged industrialists to invest in manufacturing facilities there.

Majhi also stressed the importance of addressing the basic needs of local communities impacted by mining activities.

He reassured attendees that the government would facilitate the necessary resources to enhance iron ore production.

Additionally, he revealed that an annual mining auction calendar for 2026-27 has been developed to streamline the auctioning of mining blocks.

Naveen Jindal, president of the Indian Steel Association (ISA) and MP, advocated for priority allocation of raw materials, particularly iron ore, to industries based in Odisha through the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC).

Majhi confirmed that there would be adequate supply of raw materials.

Jindal commended Odisha's mining and auction policies, noting the state's ambition to achieve an annual steel production of 100 million tonnes by 2030 through expansions and new initiatives.

The meeting saw participation from key officials, including Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner DK Singh, and industry leaders like Tata Steel CEO & MD T V Narendran, JSW Chairman Anil Kumar Singh, AMNS India Director Alok Kumar Meheta, and OMC Chairman Girish S N.