Union Minister for Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, visited the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Exhibition at the historic Sun Temple in Konark on January 21, 2025. The exhibition, held from January 18 to 21, was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Mines and the Government of Odisha, focusing on sustainable development and community empowerment in mining-affected areas.
Showcasing Community Transformation
Themed “Empowering Communities by Sustainable Development,” the exhibition featured 18 dynamic stalls representing the efforts of DMF-supported Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Geological Survey of India (GSI), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), NALCO, Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL)/Vedanta, and the Odisha Government. Exhibits included handcrafted products, handwoven textiles, eco-friendly innovations, and sustainable infrastructure models, all reflecting the positive impact of DMF funds on local communities.
By the close of the exhibition, participating SHGs had collectively earned over ₹9 lakh, showcasing the financial empowerment of mining-affected communities. The event, inaugurated by Joint Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Ms. Farida M. Naik, also demonstrated the government’s commitment to fostering economic independence and environmental sustainability.
Focus on Responsible Mining at NMMC Day 2
The second day of the 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference (NMMC), held at the Eco Retreat in Konark, saw robust discussions and knowledge sharing. Presentations by 11 states highlighted innovative auction processes, resource utilization strategies, and measures to enhance transparency and efficiency in mining operations.
Addressing the conference, Shri G. Kishan Reddy stressed the vital role of the mining sector in rural and semi-urban employment generation. He reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining and urged the adoption of advanced technologies for monitoring and enforcement. Emphasizing environmental responsibility, he called for sustainable mine closure practices, afforestation, solar energy integration, and effective waste management to mitigate mining’s ecological impact.
Collaboration for Sustainability
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) contributed valuable insights on forest conservation and environmental safeguards, guiding states in aligning economic activities with ecological preservation. The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) provided updates on safety standards, technological advancements, and worker training programs, underscoring the importance of safety in mining operations.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
The NMMC has become a critical platform for states and stakeholders to exchange ideas, address challenges, and build partnerships. The government remains committed to driving innovation, improving efficiency, and ensuring that the benefits of mining activities reach marginalized communities. This holistic approach aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, setting a benchmark for the future of India’s mining sector.
