National Mines Ministers’ Conference: Odisha today witnessed the 3rd National Mines Ministers‘ Conference, focusing on sustainable mining practices and industrial growth. The conference was held at the iconic Konark and saw the participation of Union Minister of Coal & Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Deputy Chief Ministers of Chhattisgarh and Telangana, Mines Ministers from 11 states, industry leaders, and various delegates from the mining sector.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi addressing the conference, underlined the state‘s role as one of India’s richest mineral sources and its contribution to the nation’s economic prosperity. The CM highlighted Odisha‘s commitment to responsible mining by outlining the importance of transitioning from export-led to consumption-led mining practices to ensure environmental sustainability.
He commended Odisha for its transformation into the “Steel Capital of India,” producing more than 25% of India‘s steel output and reiterated the state‘s ambition to lead the green hydrogen revolution. He underlined the need for modern mining technologies, including AI and drones, to reduce the cost of operation and protect the environment.
The conference also brought to the forefront the possibility of finding lithium deposits in Odisha, which may bring much-needed relief to the e-battery industry. The CM also announced the “Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025,” with an aim to foster innovation, investment, and collaboration in the industrial growth of the state.
The Chief Minister said that benefits should reach communities near mining areas and emphasized collaborative governance to uplift the lives of those impacted by mining activities.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy praised Odisha‘s initiatives in sustainable mining and the significant role it would play in realizing the vision of “Viksit Bharat“ by 2047. The conference ended with deliberations on how to harness technology, encourage green initiatives, and push economic growth through responsible resource use.
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