Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday held a high-level meeting with Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy to discuss measures to strengthen the state’s mining sector and enhance its contribution to India’s economy.
The meeting, held at Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar, focused on expanding mining-related infrastructure, improving mineral transportation networks, and ensuring sustainable development in mineral-rich regions of the state, the CM said in a post on X.
During the discussions, Majhi highlighted Odisha’s growing importance in India’s mineral economy and industrial expansion. He noted that the state continues to play a critical role in supplying key minerals that support the country’s manufacturing and infrastructure sectors.
The CM stressed that greater support and active cooperation from the Central government would be essential to accelerate growth in Odisha’s mining industry and unlock its full economic potential.
A key issue raised during the meeting was the need for faster development of rail and port infrastructure. Majhi emphasized that improved logistics facilities would help make mineral transportation more efficient and cost-effective, benefiting both industry and the wider economy. Enhanced connectivity is expected to streamline the movement of minerals from mining belts to industrial hubs and export destinations.
The two leaders also discussed the development of mining regions and measures aimed at improving the welfare of communities living in mineral-bearing areas. Issues related to regional development, infrastructure creation, and the socio-economic well-being of residents were part of the deliberations.
Following the meeting, Union Minister Kishan Reddy shared details of the discussions on social media. He said he had called on Majhi in Bhubaneswar and discussed matters related to the coal and mining sectors in Odisha.
According to Reddy, the discussions centred on how the sectors could further drive economic growth in the state while contributing to the vision of a developed India, or “Viksit Bharat”, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Coal, the Ministry of Mines, and the government of Odisha, reflecting the importance attached to the state’s mining and mineral development agenda.
Odisha remains one of India’s leading mineral-producing states and plays a significant role in the country’s mining output. The latest discussions between the state and the Centre are expected to strengthen cooperation in the sector while supporting industrial growth, infrastructure expansion, and regional development.