Villagers from Narla, Kalahandi, staged street plays in Ullisirka, Narla, and Samarkata, calling for local bauxite mining and an end to costly imports.
Despite holding over 5 billion tonnes of bauxite, India imports 4.5 million tonnes annually, worth ₹4,000–5,000 crore, while Kalahandi faces underdevelopment.
The performances emphasised that responsible mining could foster local growth and create jobs, better schools, and healthcare. Villagers questioned, “Why should India import bauxite when Odisha has rich deposits?”
Referencing a 2008 Supreme Court judgment mandating local profit-sharing and ecological safeguards, citizens demanded the urgent convening of the long-overdue Gram Sabha for democratic participation.
Sounak Sahoo, a Kalahandi resident, said, “Opening the bauxite mines could bring significant development and dignity for our families. We believe the government will support us in this transformation.”
Performer Sabitri Naik added, “Mining means dignity and jobs. With proper safeguards, we can create our future.” The performances ended with a rallying cry to prioritise local resources for national growth.
Overall, the events highlighted a consensus that unlocking Odisha’s mineral potential could align with India’s development goals, provided it’s done transparently with community benefits.
