By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: An illustrious knowledge report on ‘Odisha Metals and Mining Unleashing the Potential for Sustainable Growth was unveiled by esteemed dignitaries and industry experts during the ASSOCHAM’s conference held on Metals and Mining in Bhubaneswar in Odisha on Thursday.
The joint report was released by ASSOCHAM-ICRA along with the ASSOCHAM newsletter on the metals & mining sector. The report emphasized the rich mineral landscape of Odisha, offering a comprehensive understanding of its untapped potential. It also highlights the shared vision for the future of the Metals and Mining sector.
Prafulla Kumar Mallik, Minister of Steel, Mines & Works, Government of Odisha, virtually graced the “Odisha Metals & Mining Conference 2023” as the chief guest organized on the theme- Unleashing the Potential for Sustainable Growth by ASSOCHAM. He addressed the gathering and highlighted the following key points:
Minister Mallick reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the growth of the Mining and Metal Sector.
He said, Government of Odisha’s dedication to promoting exploration, expanding block auctions, and expediting the operationalization of these resources.
He urged to recognized Odisha’s historical significance as one of the nation’s primary resource-producing state . He acknowledged the need for a transformative shift from traditional practices to large-scale mining to meet the evolving industry demands within the state . A paradigm shift is the key to unlock the full potential of Odisha’s mineral wealth, Minister Mallick added.
Emphasizing the significance of sustainability in mining, Deoranjan Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Steel & Mines & Government of Odisha delivered a compelling address at the ASSOCHAM’s “Odisha Metals & Mining Conference 2023” held today in Bhubaneswar.
Singh added the urgent need to preserve our #mineral resources for future generations. He further highlighted that responsible extraction practices, the development of #sustainable logistics #infrastructure, the flourishing of downstream industries, and the well-being of local communities collectively form the fundamental pillars of Sustainable Growth in the Mining Sector.
Pankaj Lochan Mohanty Chairman Odisha State Development Council and CMD MGM Minerals Ltd has pointed out that recognizing the environmental challenges associated with mining, Odisha has taken steps to promote sustainable mining practices by enforcing environmental safeguards which ensures responsible mining thereby minimizing ecological impacts.
Pankaj Satija, Member, ASSOCHAM National Council on Mines & Minerals, Managing Director, Tata Steel Mining Ltd said “Mining is pivotal for industrial growth and should be done with the objective of resource stewardship, intergenerational equity, improving biodiversity, and water availability and minimizing the negative impact of climate change. By responsibly harnessing Earth’s riches today, we secure a sustainable legacy for future generations, while also forging a path towards a greener, more sustainable future for our planet”.
Bibhu Prasad Mishra, Executive Vice President, Jindal Steel & Power focused on logistics concerns for resource evacuation for the mineral based industry on the state. He also emphasized on raw material security and speedy EC/FC clearances for sustainable operation in the state.
Prabodh Mohanty, Managing Director, SNM Group hailed that the conference is quite relevant as state of Odisha is the largest producer of iron ore, coal, bauxite etc and it will naturally contribute to the industrial development of Odisha and India at large.
