Odisha’s Sijimali bauxite project promises new dawn for tribal communities 

By Swagatika Mohanty

Rayagada, (Odisha), Dec. 3: The Sijimali bauxite block, spanning Kalahandi and Rayagada districts, holds the promise of transforming the socio-economic fabric of one of Odisha’s most underdeveloped regions. With its vast potential, this mining project is poised to uplift tribal communities while preserving their cultural identity and environmental balance. 

The Sijimali bauxite mine, spearheaded by Vedanta, represents not just an industrial venture but a blueprint for inclusive development. The company plans to invest Rs 1,200 crore over the next 25 years through its Lanjigarh Periphery Area Development Fund (LPDAF) and the newly proposed Sijimali Periphery Area Development Fund (SPDAF). Both funds aim to directly address the needs of local communities, with public representatives from Kalahandi and Rayagada actively involved in shaping developmental initiatives. 

Economist Dr Pravas Mishra emphasises the transformative potential of the project, noting, “The estimated revenue of Rs 2,200 crore per year from Sijimali could redefine Odisha’s economic landscape. The state will gain resources to invest in infrastructure and welfare schemes that could shape the future for decades.” 

At the heart of the Sijimali project is the focus on tribal empowerment. The initiative is expected to create over 1,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities, with an emphasis on skilling the local workforce through Vocational Training Centers and Entrepreneur Development Programs. 

“These programs are more than just skill-building exercises—they are a means to nurture dreams,” says Pramod Sahukar, a local community leader. The effort to integrate tribal participation into the mainstream economy aims to improve the region’s standing in critical areas such as health, education, and livelihood. 

“Vedanta has committed to operating Sijimali with a deep respect for the environment, positioning Mother Earth as a key stakeholder in its activities. The company plans to develop extensive green cover around the mining site to act as a natural bio-filter, reducing soil erosion and protecting the local flora and fauna,” an official of the company said. 

This environmentally conscious approach seeks to strike a delicate balance between industrial growth and ecological preservation, ensuring that the region’s natural heritage is safeguarded. 

“The impact of the Sijimali bauxite project is expected to extend far beyond economic gains. As tribal communities are integrated into the development process, the region could emerge as a model for sustainable industrialization. Health outcomes, educational access, and livelihood opportunities are set to improve significantly, while the preservation of ethnic and environmental values will anchor this progress,” added economist Dr Mishra. 

“Sijimali, with its unique blend of socio-economic investment and ecological stewardship, has the potential to rewrite the narrative of Kalahandi and Rayagada. What was once considered a land of deprivation could soon be recognised as a hub of development and social capital, setting an inspiring example for the rest of the country,” said Ramakant Lenka, a local teacher.