In a bid to drive socio-economic development, the tribal groups and residents of Kalahandi district have fervently called for the immediate conduct of a Gram Sabha for the Lanjigarh Bauxite Mine.
Representatives from the Lanjigarh Anchalika Vikas Parishad submitted a memorandum to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging swift action on the long-pending issue. They emphasized that despite Kalahandi possessing some of the world’s finest bauxite reserves, the region remains underdeveloped due to the non-operationalization of the Lanjigarh Bauxite Mine.
The memorandum highlighted the stark contrast in development between Kalahandi and its neighboring districts, Rayagada and Koraput, where active mining operations have led to significant improvements in living standards, infrastructure, and economic growth. In comparison, Kalahandi continues to suffer from inadequate infrastructure, limited economic growth, and generational poverty among indigenous communities, including the Dongria and Kutia Kondh.
The delegation expressed deep concern that the 21-year delay in convening the Gram Sabha has severely hindered the region’s progress. They noted that the absence of mining operations has resulted in the denial of the 5% development fund intended for enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and education in the region.
With the new double-engine progressive government in place, the tribal groups and residents of Kalahandi have placed their trust in the government’s commitment to inclusive development. They eagerly await a decisive step to initiate mining operations, which would ensure employment opportunities, infrastructural development, and overall economic prosperity for the long-neglected Kalahandi region.
