The Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) recently celebrated its 70th Foundation Day, marking seven decades of contributions to the state’s economic development and industrial progress.
The event, held at the OUAT Agricultural Education Hall in Bhubaneswar, highlighted OMC’s journey from a modest financial turnover of ₹1 crore in the 1960s to a staggering ₹23,600 crore in the fiscal year 2024-25.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the chief guest at the occasion, emphasised OMC’s pivotal role in driving the state’s growth. He announced the reopening of the ‘Dubuna’ iron ore mine in Barbil, which is expected to produce three million tons of iron ore annually. Additionally, he proposed establishing an iron pellet plant in mining areas to enhance value-added production.
Odisha, known for its rich mineral reserves, accounts for over 41.9% of India’s total mineral resources. OMC has played a crucial role in sustainable exploration and mining, strengthening the state’s economy. The Chief Minister stressed the need for Odisha to transition into a mixed economy by promoting manufacturing alongside agriculture. He highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure industrial growth by leveraging the state’s abundant raw materials through modern strategies, contrasting previous administrations’ shortcomings in industrialisation.
The event also witnessed the launch of new initiatives aimed at modernising OMC’s operations. These include logistics management, finance systems, land utilisation optimisation, and a streamlined recruitment process. To improve mining efficiency and sustainability, the Chief Minister inaugurated a 900-kilowatt peak solar plant at Koida mining areas.
OMC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities were lauded during the event. So far, the corporation has successfully planted over nine million trees, with plans to expand environmental conservation measures further. The company also focuses on improving education, healthcare, and sports facilities in mining-affected areas.
Recognising OMC’s excellence, awards were presented to its top-performing mines for the years 2023-24 and 2024-25, acknowledging achievements in productivity, safety, and operational efficiency. With the successful relaunch of the Dubuna mine and the adoption of advanced mining strategies, OMC continues to solidify its position among India’s top five mineral-producing entities.
The Foundation Day celebration reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to sustainable mineral exploration, industrial expansion, and economic prosperity.
During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated the resumption of operations at the Dubuna and Barbil iron ore mines, as well as the power supply to the Tiring Pahar Mine and Rengalbeda RR Colony in the Barbil area. Additionally, a 900 kW peak solar power plant was inaugurated at the OMC mines in the Koida mining area.
To further improve the company’s performance, four IT modules were launched: the Logistics Management System (LMS), OMC Finance Management System (OFMS), OMC Plot Land Utilisation System (OPLUS), and OMC Recruitment Management System (ORMS).
The Chief Minister also presented awards in three categories—Best Mine Area, Best Mine, and Safe Mine—for the years 2023-24 and 2024-25 to the operational mines of OMC that excelled in these areas. Furthermore, a magazine highlighting the CSR initiatives of the Odisha Mining Corporation was released during the event.
Minister for Mines and Steel, Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, who participated in the program, emphasized the significant role of the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) in transforming the state’s industrial sector. He announced that 18 OMC mines have become operational, contributing not only to mineral production but also to establishing a strong, self-reliant Odisha. Jena highlighted that OMC is enhancing Odisha’s economic growth through advanced production techniques and modern technology. He urged the officers and employees present to make OMC even more dynamic.
Development Commissioner Smt. Anu Garg stated that by effectively utilising our natural resources, Odisha has progressed from a weak economy to a middle-income economy. She acknowledged OMC’s consistent performance over the years but stressed the importance of adopting new technologies to ensure sustainable development.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Mines and Steel Department, Surendra Kumar, delivered the welcome address, while OMC Managing Director Sudhansu Mohan Samal proposed the vote of thanks. All departmental officers and employees working under the Corporation attended the program.
