Bhubaneswar: As Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) marked its 70th anniversary, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the company’s pivotal role in the state’s economic development. The event, held at the OUAT Agricultural Education Hall in Bhubaneswar, also saw the reopening of the Dubuna iron ore mine in Badbil, which is expected to produce 3 million tonnes of iron ore annually.
Odisha, rich in mineral resources, contributes over 41.9% of India’s total mineral reserves. For more than six decades, OMC has been instrumental in exploring and mining these resources, significantly boosting the state’s economy. 
OMC’s 70th Anniversary: Odisha Reopens Dubuna Iron Ore Mine, Aims for 3 Million Tonnes Annual Production


OMC’s Journey: From Humble Beginnings to a Mining Powerhouse  

Chief Minister Majhi recounted OMC’s remarkable journey—from its modest start in the 1960s with just ₹1 crore in business to achieving a staggering ₹23,600 crore turnover in the 2024-25 fiscal year. Today, OMC ranks among India’s top five mineral-producing companies and stands as a model profit-making public sector enterprise.  
“OMC is not just a mining company; it is a key driver of Odisha’s progress and a major contributor to India’s economic growth,” said Majhi. 
He emphasized that while Odisha is primarily an agrarian state, relying solely on agriculture will not ensure sustained development. Instead, the government is focusing on creating a mixed economy by promoting industrialization alongside traditional sectors.  

Reviving the Dubuna Iron Ore Mine  

One of the highlights of the event was the reopening of the Dubuna iron ore mine in Badbil, which has an estimated reserve of 25.77 million tonnes of iron ore and 2.6 million tonnes of manganese. The mine is expected to produce 3 million tonnes of iron ore and 50,000 tonnes of manganese annually, reinforcing OMC’s production capacity.  
Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated electrification projects in Tiring Pahad mine and Rengalbeda RR Colony, improving living conditions for mining-affected communities. He also launched a 900 kW peak solar power plant in the Koira mining area, emphasizing sustainable energy use in mining operations.  

Boosting Industrialization Through Mineral Linkage Policy  

To attract industries, the Odisha government has introduced a long-term mineral linkage policy, ensuring that over 80% of raw materials are allocated to industries established within the state. This move aims to reduce dependency on exports of raw minerals and instead promote value addition within Odisha.  
“Previous governments failed to leverage Odisha’s industrial potential, but our administration is committed to rapid industrialization,” Majhi stated. 
He stressed the need for iron pellet plants in mining areas to enhance local processing and generate employment.  
OMC’s 70th Anniversary: Odisha Reopens Dubuna Iron Ore Mine, Aims for 3 Million Tonnes Annual Production


Honoring Workers and Ensuring Sustainable Growth 

The Chief Minister praised the contributions of mining workers, calling them the backbone of Odisha’s development. “If our workers prosper, Odisha prospers,” he said, urging industries to balance mechanization with human labor to maximize employment opportunities.  
OMC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives were also commended. The company has planted over 9 lakh trees for environmental conservation and is actively involved in education, healthcare, and sports development in mining-affected regions. Majhi encouraged further investments in clean drinking water and community welfare programs through CSR funds. 


Digital Transformation and Awards for Excellence  

To enhance operational efficiency, the Chief Minister launched four IT modules:  
  • Logistic Management System (LMS)  
  • OMC Finance Management System (OFMS) 
  • OMC Plot Land Utilization System (OPLUS)  
  • OMC Recruitment Management System (ORMS)
These digital tools aim to streamline logistics, financial management, land use, and recruitment processes.  
Outstanding mining units were also recognized with awards in three categories:  
  • Best Mining Field (2023-24 & 2024-25)  
  • Best Mine 
  • Safest Mine 

Future Vision: Sustainable and Inclusive Growth  

Shri Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Minister of Steel and Mines, highlighted OMC’s role in transforming Odisha’s industrial landscape. 
OMC’s 70th Anniversary: Odisha Reopens Dubuna Iron Ore Mine, Aims for 3 Million Tonnes Annual Production

“With 18 operational mines, OMC is not just extracting minerals but laying the foundation for a self-reliant Odisha,” he said. 

 

Ms. Anu Garg, Development Commissioner, emphasized the need for continuous technological advancements in mining. 
“We have transitioned from a weak economy to an intermediate one, but sustained growth requires innovation and modernization,” she stated.  

Conclusion: A Path Forward  

OMC Chairman Shri Surendra Kumar and Managing Director Shri Sudhanshu Mohan Samal expressed gratitude to employees and stakeholders for their dedication. With renewed focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and value-added production, OMC is poised to drive Odisha’s economic growth in the decades to come.  
As Odisha moves towards becoming an industrial hub, OMC’s role in responsible mining, environmental conservation, and community development will remain crucial. The reopening of the Dubuna mine and the push for local mineral processing signal a new era of self-sufficiency and prosperity for the state.