The mining sector is set to catapult Odisha into the ranks of developed states by 2036, according to Minister of MSME Gokulananda Mallik. Speaking at the inauguration of the third Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Expo 2025, Mallik painted a bold vision for the state, leveraging its rich mineral wealth to drive economic growth. “Odisha is a leader in the mining sector with deposits of bauxite, coal, iron ore, and other mineral resources, contributing significantly to the state’s revenue. Its mineral wealth will be a key driver of the state’s growth story,” Mallik asserted.
The expo, a collaborative effort between Futurex Trade Fair and Events, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Skill Council of Mining Sector, and the Odisha Assembly of Small and Medium Enterprises (OASME), is more than just a showcase of mining prowess. It is a strategic move to position Odisha as a global mining hub. The four-day event, attended by delegations from both India and abroad, is expected to foster growth and development in the mining sector. Additional chief secretary of Industries department Hemant Sharma underscored the expo’s significance, stating, “The four-day expo with the participation of delegations from India and abroad will be highly beneficial for the growth and development of the mining sector in Odisha.”
The expo is a treasure trove of innovation, featuring state-of-the-art mining machinery, cutting-edge technology solutions, and a plethora of services and supplies. With over 250 companies participating, the event is a melting pot of ideas and advancements shaping the future of mining and infrastructure. This convergence of industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers is not just about showcasing the latest in mining technology; it’s about charting a new course for Odisha’s economic trajectory.
The implications of this expo and Mallik’s vision are profound. If Odisha can successfully harness its mineral wealth and integrate advanced mining technologies, it could set a new benchmark for sustainable mining practices. This could attract global investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. However, the path to becoming a developed state by 2036 is fraught with challenges. Environmental sustainability, community engagement, and responsible mining practices will be critical to Odisha’s success.
The expo serves as a clarion call to the mining industry, urging it to embrace innovation and sustainability. It challenges the status quo, pushing the sector to adopt technologies that minimize environmental impact and maximize resource efficiency. For Odisha, this is an opportunity to redefine its mining narrative, moving from a resource-rich state to a model of sustainable development. The world is watching, and the stakes are high. The question is, will Odisha rise to the challenge and set a new standard for the global mining industry?