Odisha steel and mines minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena outlines mining reform push at national conclave

By Nalini Sahu

Bhubaneswar, Jan. 10: Odisha Steel and Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena on Friday presented the State’s reform agenda for mineral governance at the National Mineral Chintan Shivir–2026, highlighting transparency-driven policy changes, stricter oversight and a renewed push for sustainable mining.

Addressing the conclave organised by the Union Ministry of Mines at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Mr. Jena said Odisha’s recent regulatory reforms have significantly strengthened governance in one of India’s most mineral-rich States. The event was attended by Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, senior ministers from several States and top policymakers.

Mr. Jena highlighted the rollout of the Odisha Mineral Policy and Transparency System (OMPTS)–2025 and the revised Odisha Minor Mineral Concession (OMMC) Rules–2025, describing them as key instruments to curb illegal mining, improve accountability and streamline mineral block allocation.

He informed the gathering that Odisha has auctioned eight major mineral blocks since he assumed charge, reinforcing investor confidence and accelerating responsible mineral development. Notices Inviting Tenders have also been issued for 12 additional major mineral blocks, signalling the State’s commitment to a time-bound and transparent auction framework.

Placing Odisha’s experience in a national policy context, the Minister urged the Centre to consider rationalising duties on iron ore fines to reduce economic inefficiencies and improve resource utilisation. He also pitched incentive-based mechanisms to encourage mining lessees to achieve higher and timely production within approved capacities.

Mr. Jena further called for strengthening State public sector undertakings through enhanced allocation of mineral blocks, arguing that assured access to raw materials would support small and downstream industries and stabilise supply chains.

Odisha, which accounts for a substantial share of India’s iron ore, chromite and bauxite production, has emerged as a key driver of the country’s mineral economy. Mr. Jena said the State’s reform-led approach is aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, with a focus on technology-driven, transparent and environmentally sustainable mining practices.