Kalahandi (Odisha) [India], January 08: Residents of Kalahandi and Rayagada districts have submitted a memorandum to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha through the Block Development Officer (BDO), Lanjigarh, and the Collector & District Magistrate, Kalahandi, urging the government to allocate bauxite mines to the Alumina Refinery at Lanjigarh. The demand was raised ahead of the proposed Gram Sabha for the Lanjigarh bauxite mines, highlighting the need for sustainable economic development in the region.
The memorandum emphasized that the Lanjigarh Alumina Refinery, established in 2003, has been instrumental in transforming one of Odisha’s most backward regions, providing livelihoods to over 50,000 families and uplifting marginalized tribal communities, including the Dongria and Kutia Kondh tribes.
Key Contributions Highlighted in the Memorandum:
- Employment Opportunities: Thousands of locals have gained direct and indirect employment.
- Skill Development: Over 600 youths have received training and employment.
- Entrepreneurial Growth: Local businesses have prospered through partnerships with the refinery.
- Infrastructure Development: Improved roads, housing, and utilities have modernized the region.
- Education and Healthcare: A DAV International School and a 20-bed hospital provide quality services.
- CSR Initiatives: Women empowerment programs, sports development, and community welfare projects have benefited thousands.
Despite operating for over two decades, the refinery continues to face challenges due to the lack of a dedicated bauxite source, relying instead on inconsistent external supplies. Residents expressed concern over the allocation of bauxite mines to industries in neighboring districts while the Lanjigarh refinery remains without a secured resource base.
The memorandum calls for equitable allocation of bauxite mines to the Lanjigarh refinery, to safeguard jobs and sustain economic growth in the region. It also seeks government support to strengthen the progress achieved through industrial development and community programs.
Residents urged the government to use the upcoming Gram Sabha as an opportunity to address this pressing issue and prioritize the allocation of bauxite resources to ensure the refinery’s long-term sustainability and the region’s prosperity.
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