Resolution for Bauxite Mining Ban in Odisha Adopted at Environment Conference

A resolution was passed at the Koraput District Natural Resources Protection Conference, held on World Environment Day, calling for an immediate ban on new bauxite mining projects in Odisha, particularly at Mali Parbat. Participants criticized the government for granting mining leases that jeopardize the livelihoods of tribal communities.

In contrast, BJP representative Goutam Samantaray emphasized the government's commitment to balancing environmental protection with economic development, asserting that all mining activities comply with legal environmental standards. Odisha holds approximately 60% of India's bauxite reserves, with ongoing mining activities causing environmental harm and not sufficiently addressing the needs of displaced communities. The long-term implications of unchecked mining could exacerbate social and environmental issues in the region.