In a major push to boost industrial growth and resource utilization, the Odisha government is preparing to auction 34 mines across multiple districts in the state in the upcoming financial year.

Wide Range of Minerals to Be Auctioned

The mines up for auction include a diverse range of valuable minerals such as gold, iron ore, bauxite, manganese, limestone, copper, and other critical minerals. Out of the total, 25 mines belong to major minerals, while 9 are categorized as critical mineral blocks.

Districts Identified for Mining Projects

The identified mines are spread across mineral-rich districts including Malkangiri, Subarnapur, Kalahandi, Deogarh, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Balangir, Rayagada, Koraput, Nuapada, and Nayagarh.

State and Centre to Jointly Conduct Auctions

According to reports, the Odisha government will auction 25 mines, while the Central government will handle 9 critical mineral blocks. These auctions will be conducted under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 2015, with a lease period of 50 years.

Focus on Gold and Critical Minerals

The state has identified several gold-bearing zones, including:

• Madansahi–Kanjia in Mayurbhanj
• Jaladihi in Keonjhar
• Adas–Rampalli in Deogarh

In addition, graphite mines in Nayagarh, Rayagada, and Balangir, vanadium deposits in Balangir, and tin reserves in Malkangiri are also set for auction.

Exploration Backed by National Agencies

Various national and state-level agencies have conducted extensive exploration activities, leading to the identification of deposits such as gold, diamond, and other precious minerals across Odisha.

Renewed Momentum After 2023

Notably, no major mine auctions were conducted in the state since 2023. The government led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had initially prepared 30 mines for auction, out of which:

• 8 have already been auctioned
• 12 are currently under process
• 10 more will be auctioned soon

Additionally, the Centre is expected to announce the auction of 19 critical mineral blocks shortly.

Economic Boost and Employment Opportunities

The large-scale auction of mineral blocks is expected to significantly enhance Odisha’s economic growth. It will also generate substantial employment opportunities and attract investments in the mining and allied sectors.

Environmental and Local Interests Prioritized

The government has emphasized that environmental protection and the welfare of local communities will remain key priorities during the mining and development process.

With its vast mineral reserves, Odisha continues to position itself as a key player in India’s mining sector, and the upcoming auctions mark a significant step toward sustainable and inclusive growth.

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