Early operationalization of Odisha's Iron ore mines
10 Dec 2020 12:11:42
New Delhi, Dec 10: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has stressed on the early operationalization of the iron ore mines in Odisha which have already been auctioned. Pradhan underlined this through a virtual meeting held with Union Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the early operationalization of these mines will not only ensure supply of iron ore for the steel industry, but will also create local employment while boosting the economy.
The Minister said, ensuring raw material security for the Steel industry is a critical element of the country's vision to achieve 300 million tonnes production capacity by 2030, thereby contributing to the overall vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
As of now, only 5 out of the 24 auctioned iron ore mines in the state are engaged in production and supply of iron ore, thereby leading to supply shortage and cost escalation. Odisha, the ministry said, holds immense importance for the Indian steel industry with a major share of raw material reserves and steel production capacity.