Odisha to Auction 22 Mines Soon, Says Steel and Mines Minister
Bhubaneswar: In a major development for the mining sector, the Odisha government is set to auction 22 mines in the coming days. This was announced by the newly appointed Steel and Mines Minister Bhibhuti Bhushan Jena, who emphasized that the move will significantly enhance state revenue and spur economic growth.
Speaking to the media, Minister Jena said that the process for auctioning these mines has reached its final stages. “The upcoming auctions will bring substantial revenue to the state’s treasury. We are committed to making Odisha a hub for responsible and profitable mining,” he said.
Criticizing the previous government, Jena stated that they had failed to take proactive steps in auctioning mines, which resulted in lost opportunities. “After the new government assumed office, eight mines have already been successfully auctioned. Now, we are preparing to auction 22 more,” he added.
The minister also stressed that beyond revenue generation, the auctions are expected to attract significant investments from industry leaders and entrepreneurs. “This will not only strengthen our economy but also open doors to large-scale employment for the youth of Odisha,” Jena noted.
The mines to be auctioned include a variety of mineral resources that are vital to the steel and allied industries. The move aligns with the state government’s vision of leveraging natural resources for sustainable development and industrial growth.
Officials from the Department of Steel and Mines have confirmed that necessary clearances and documentation are nearly complete, and the auction notices will be released soon.
By fast-tracking the auction process, the government aims to bring in long-term investors who can contribute to the state’s industrial ecosystem. The auctions are expected to follow transparent and competitive procedures, ensuring maximum benefit for the state.
With this initiative, Odisha is positioning itself as a key player in India’s mineral economy, offering both resource security and investment opportunities.
