OMC a Pillar of Odisha’s Economic Growth, Says CM Majhi on 70th Foundation Day

Bhubaneswar – Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi hailed the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) as a model profit-making public sector undertaking and a key driver of the state and nation’s economic growth. Speaking at the 70th Foundation Day celebrations of OMC, Majhi praised the corporation’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s top five mineral-producing companies.

OMC, which started operations in the 1960s with a turnover of just ₹1 crore, has now reached a turnover of ₹23,600 crore for the financial year 2024–25—earned entirely through the production and sale of minerals. The Chief Minister highlighted this growth as a testament to OMC’s strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to Odisha’s prosperity.

“OMC is not just Odisha’s pride, but a national example of a successful PSU,” Majhi said, adding that the corporation plays a crucial role in supporting the state’s vision of building a robust mixed economy with greater emphasis on manufacturing.

He pointed out that Odisha is rich in raw materials required for industrial growth but previous administrations had failed to harness this potential. Under the current government, over 80 percent of mined raw materials are being supplied to in-state industries through a long-term linkage policy, thereby strengthening Odisha’s industrial base.

Recognizing the critical role of the workforce, CM Majhi remarked, “The backbone of our development is our working brothers and sisters. If the workers are empowered, Odisha will be empowered.” He called for a balance between manpower and machinery deployment at mining sites to enhance productivity and safety.

To mark the occasion, the Chief Minister reopened the Dubuna and Barbil iron ore mines. Together, the mines have an annual production capacity of 3 million tonnes of iron ore and 0.05 million tonnes of manganese. The Dubuna mine alone holds reserves of 25.77 million tonnes of iron ore and 2.6 million tonnes of manganese.

Majhi also inaugurated a 900 kW peak solar power plant at OMC’s Koida mining area, reflecting the PSU’s commitment to sustainability and green energy. Awards were presented in three categories—Best Mining Area, Best Mine, and Safe Mine—for the operational years 2023–24 and 2024–25, honouring the corporation’s top-performing mines.

OMC’s 70th Foundation Day celebration marked not only a milestone in its illustrious journey but also reiterated its pivotal role in transforming Odisha into an industrial and economic powerhouse.