Odisha CM Orders Strict Reporting and Faster Spending of DMF Funds
State focuses on better utilisation, basic services, and long-term development in mining-affected districts
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi instructed all departmental secretaries to submit the annual and audit reports of every District Mineral Foundation (DMF). The directive came during a high-level review meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar to evaluate the status and utilisation of DMF funds across the state.
Over Rs 34,000 Crore Collected; Only 55% Utilised
According to an official statement, Odisha has collected a total of Rs 34,052 crore from 11 DMF districts as of October this year. However, only about 55 per cent of the total amount has been utilised in various development projects. Reviewing the situation, the Chief Minister urged officials to accelerate spending to ensure timely delivery of essential services.
The meeting also noted that after the reconstitution of DMFs in 10 districts, Trust Board meetings have already been conducted to streamline operations and planning.
CM Emphasises Use of Funds for Essential Services
Majhi stressed that DMF funds must be used to meet the basic needs of people living in mining-affected regions. He directed authorities to prioritise projects related to education, healthcare, drinking water, communication networks, and other essential services.
The Chief Minister instructed departments to regularly convene DMF Trust Board meetings to monitor progress and remove implementation delays. He also emphasized that funds generated from minor minerals should be used for development anywhere within the respective districts.
Mining-Affected Villages to Be Identified
To ensure targeted development, the state will soon identify villages directly or indirectly affected by mining operations. This will help deliver benefits more efficiently to communities facing environmental, social, and infrastructural challenges due to mining activities.
Majhi also instructed officials to take urgent steps to control pollution in areas surrounding mining zones, addressing concerns about the health and safety of local residents.
Endowment Fund for Future Generations
In districts where DMF collections have reached Rs 10 crore or more, the administration has been asked to set up an Endowment Fund. This fund will be invested in government securities, scheduled bank bonds, or fixed deposits.
According to the Chief Minister, the Endowment Fund will serve as a long-term financial resource to create livelihood opportunities for future generations, especially in areas where minerals have been exhausted or where mining activities have come to a halt.
A Push Toward Sustainable, Inclusive Development
The Chief Minister’s directives aim to ensure that DMF funds—created to support mining-affected communities—are used effectively, transparently, and in a timely manner. With stronger monitoring, faster utilisation, and long-term planning, the state hopes to improve living standards and create sustainable development models in mineral-rich regions of Odisha.
