By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, August 10, 2018: Around 17 to 18 mining blocks including iron ore blocks will be put for auction during the current financial year by Odisha government, union mines secretary Anil G Mukim said here on Friday.

Briefing reporters after a meeting with chief minister Naveen Patnaik, the union secretary stressed on auction of more mining blocks in Odisha.

“Odisha is the mining capital of the country. It contributes in a very substantive manner to the mining activity of the country. The state government is very proactive in mining auction process,” said Mukim.
Of total 43 mineral blocks auctioned in the country by July 25, Odisha accounted for five blocks comprising three iron ore and one each limestone and manganese ore. However, none of the mining blocks, auctioned in Odisha, have started operations due to delay in getting statutory clearances from the Centre and state government.

Our of the estimated value of the resources in Rs 41,781 crore, the state government will earn revenue to the tune of Rs 31,725 crore over a period of 50 years, sources said.

The union mines secretary also appreciated the state government’s efforts in collecting funds for district mineral foundation (DMF) from mining owners, which is being spent for the interest and benefit of persons and areas affected by mining activities.

“Not only more and more auctions are taking place in Odisha but more than Rs 5000 crore have been collected under the DMF fund. New projects have been approved from the fund,” said Mukim.
The government spends the DMF fund on housing, drinking water, education, healthcare, ecology protection, sanitation, skill development, women, child care and empowerment of physically challenged persons.

In Odisha, projects worth Rs 3000 crore have so far been approved from the DMF fund.