Synopsis
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted on January 20 that Odisha's contributions to India's economic growth are unparalleled, referring to the state as 'Ratna Garbha', and emphasizing its wealth of minerals and resources.Key Takeaways
- Odisha is a treasure trove of natural wealth.
- The state is a major contributor to India's steel output.
- Potential lithium reserves could boost the EV battery sector.
- Odisha aims to become a global industrial hub.
- Sustainable mining practices are essential for future growth.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 20 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed on Monday that the contributions of his mineral-rich state of Odisha towards India's economic growth are unmatched. He referred to Odisha as ‘Ratna Garbha’, a true treasure trove of natural resources. While addressing the 3rd Mining Ministers’ Conference in Konark, CM Majhi stated: "Every corner of Odisha is abundant in valuable mineral resources. Odisha indeed is 'Ratna Garbha', a treasure chest of natural wealth. Our state's contribution to India's economic prosperity is unparalleled, and we take immense pride in being a crucial driver of our nation's advancement."
He also highlighted the potential presence of much-needed and scarce lithium in one of the districts of Odisha based on preliminary findings from the Geological Survey of India.
The Chief Minister noted that this is promising news for the EV battery industry.
CM Majhi emphasized that Odisha is not only rich in minerals but also has significant coal reserves.
He pointed out that the full potential of mineral-rich Odisha is yet to be realized due to various factors, including a lack of strong political will.
CM Majhi assured that these challenges will soon change for the benefit of the state's population.
"From having just one major steel plant in Rourkela, Odisha now proudly hosts over three dozen major steel plants, earning the title of India's steel capital, contributing nearly 25 percent of the nation's total steel production," he mentioned.
The Chief Minister projected that the state's steel output is expected to grow significantly by 2030.
He further remarked that the state government is dedicated to transforming Odisha into a global industrial hub and is heavily investing in the steel and mining sectors.
CM Majhi noted that three eastern Indian states—Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand—are responsible for producing and supplying over two-thirds of the nation’s base metal needs.
"To achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 as envisioned by PM Modi, these three states will drive growth, with Odisha playing a significant role," he added.
Stressing the importance of sustainable mining, the Chief Minister urged attendees to transition from an export-led mining economy to a consumption-driven mining approach.
He advised the mining industry to embrace modern technologies such as drones and artificial intelligence to reduce operational costs while ensuring environmental conservation.
CM Majhi also noted that India has achieved its target of 200 gigawatts of renewable energy and aims for an ambitious target of 500 gigawatts by 2030, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"The next major focus will be green hydrogen, in which Odisha is set to become a key player in the upcoming years. In summary, both development and environmental sustainability can coexist, and it is our duty to provide a greener planet for future generations," concluded CM Majhi.
