Odisha's Ambitious Vision: Transforming into a Global Metals and Mining Hub
Inauguration of CII Odisha Metals & Mining Conclave 2026
Bhubaneswar: During the opening session of the CII Odisha Metals & Mining Conclave 2026, Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain emphasized the importance of enhancing local manufacturing capabilities based on the state's mineral resources. This two-day event, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), will continue until September 26, gathering policymakers, industry leaders, and technology specialists to discuss the future of Odisha's metals and mining sector.
The conclave aims to bolster Odisha's status as a premier hub for metals and mining by focusing on value addition, advanced manufacturing techniques, sustainable mining practices, digital transformation, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, circular economy principles, logistics, innovation, startups, critical minerals, and skill enhancement. Swain, the chief guest, pointed out significant investments in aluminum and called for increased emphasis on value addition, recycling, cleaner production methods, digital advancements, and collaboration between industry and academia.
He mentioned that 27 projects worth ₹2.47 lakh crore have been sanctioned across 15 districts, which could create over 50,000 jobs, including ₹14,000 crore allocated for steel and downstream initiatives in Sundargarh. Anil Kumar Singh, Chairman of the CII Odisha State Council, remarked, "Odisha has a rich legacy in minerals and mining. The next growth phase should extend beyond mere extraction to include value addition, advanced manufacturing, beneficiation, recycling, and circularity, all underpinned by sustainable and technology-driven practices." Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, reflected on Odisha's transformation from a mining hub to a prominent center for metals, stating, "We have progressed from being the capital of the mining industry to claiming the title of metals capital of India and South Asia."