TNI Bureau: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) has emerged as a major pillar of the state’s economic development by playing a crucial role in industrialisation and mineral production.

Addressing the 71st Foundation Day celebration of OMC at Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre, the Chief Minister said the global demand for raw materials such as iron ore, bauxite and chromite is increasing rapidly, and OMC has been continuously contributing towards meeting this demand while strengthening Odisha’s economy.

He said OMC, which started its journey in the 1960s with a business turnover of just Rs 1 crore, has achieved a turnover of Rs 25,000 crore during the 2025-26 financial year. The corporation has also created a record by producing 45 million tonnes of minerals, establishing itself as one of the leading mining organisations in the country.

The Chief Minister advised OMC to expand its operations beyond Odisha and explore mining-based activities in other states. He also stressed the need to focus on industrialisation alongside mining activities, stating that the corporation has abundant mineral resources at its disposal.

Highlighting OMC’s contribution to the state, he said the corporation has not only functioned as a commercial organisation over the last seven decades but has also become a strong pillar of Odisha’s economic progress. He noted that OMC regularly contributes a major share of its profits to the state government and has made significant contributions to the prosperity of both Odisha and the country through responsible utilisation of mineral resources.

Referring to the Bangur Chromite Mine in Keonjhar district, the Chief Minister said OMC has successfully tested a pilot plant for extraction of Platinum Group Elements. He said the initiative will help supply essential metals required for clean energy, electronics and modern automobile manufacturing sectors.

He further said OMC has brought positive changes in mining areas through its CSR initiatives in sectors such as education, healthcare, drinking water, women empowerment, sports and infrastructure development. He also advised the corporation to increase employment opportunities for local residents in mining operations to strengthen their livelihoods.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated the permanent campus of Odisha Mining Adarsha Vidyalaya at Kaliapani, eight advanced Basic Life Support ambulances for mining-affected areas, an Integrated Management and Monitoring Centre, and a digital healthcare management system named ‘O-Swasthya’. He also presented awards to the best-performing mines and regions.

Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary D.K. Singh praised OMC’s contribution to the growth of Odisha’s industrial sector and stressed the need to further enhance the utility of mining operations for the development of the state and the country.

OMC Chairman Girish S.N. welcomed the guests, while Managing Director Sudhanshu Mohan Samal delivered the vote of thanks.