Odisha govt to auction more bauxite mines in 2016

Odisha's economy has experienced a setback following revenue cuts by the Central government. This has affected, in turn, revenue generation from the state's mining sector. Even though revenues from iron ore and bauxite mining in India's mineral-rich coastal state increased during 2015-16 fiscal compared to last year, it has been reported to be lagging behind the target set for the year.

However, the scenario is yet not that dissapointing as a collection of INR 3647 crore till December 22, 2015 is expected to put the sector back on a path of recovery.

The State Government had initially set a target of INR 6000 crore from the sector, comprising mainly of iron ore and bauxite mining projects, for 2015-16. With the financial year nearing its end, doubts have cropped up whether this target can be reached.

Revenue generation from the iron ore and bauxite mining development projects was around INR 2900 crore in the corresponding period during the last financial year. Chief Secretary AP Padhi, who reviewed the activities of Steel and Mines Department, asked the officials on Monday to scale up mineral production in coming four months through appropriate action plan and close monitoring. Padhi also directed the Department to prepare more bauxite mines and other mineral deposits to be auctioned in 2016.

The Chief Secretary also reviewed the use of i3MS, a software developed in the State, for tracking mineral production and despatch. Principal Secretary in Steel and Mines Department RK Sharma said the software has proved very useful in monitoring production, despatch and transportation of minerals in the State. He said the Centre has recommended the model to be followed in other States as well.