Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], January 8: A wave of optimism and unity swept through Kalahandi today as over 4,000 residents from Lanjigarh and its surrounding areas rallied to appeal for the allocation of permanent bauxite mines to Vedanta’s alumina refinery in the region. The peaceful demonstration underscored the community’s aspiration for sustained socio-economic growth and prosperity in this tribal-dominated district.
Organised by prominent local leaders and supported by associations such as the Lanjigarh Workers’ Association, Merchants’ Association, Drivers’ Association, and Motor Vehicle Owners’ Association, the rally began at the Horticulture Office in Biswanathpur and culminated at the Lanjigarh Block Office. Among the leaders were Sridhar Pesnia, former MLA Sibaji Majhi, MD Ayub, Rajendra Pratap Singh Deo, Himadri Pesnia, and Lingaraj Majhi, who jointly submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate and Block Development Officer for onward transmission to Odisha Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Chandra Majhi.
The memorandum highlights the transformational impact of the Vedanta alumina refinery on the local economy since its establishment in 2003. Once among the most underdeveloped regions of Odisha, Kalahandi has seen significant strides in industrial growth and employment opportunities, thanks to the visionary policies of the then state government.
The community’s request for permanent bauxite allocation aligns with their shared vision of fostering greater economic stability and enhancing livelihoods for tribal groups, including the Dongria and Kutia Kondhs. The appeal also emphasizes the need to secure the plant’s operational efficiency and safeguard its long-term contributions to the region.
As an aspirational district under the Government of India, Kalahandi’s progress has the potential to serve as a model of inclusive development. The locals expressed gratitude for the opportunities already created by the alumina refinery and reiterated their commitment to its continued success. However, the absence of a dedicated raw material source for 21 years has posed challenges, which they believe can be resolved through the allocation of local bauxite mines.
The Lanjigarh plant’s operational history and its pivotal role in uplifting local communities underscore the urgency of their request. The community firmly believes that granting bauxite allocation will not only stabilise the plant’s operations but also catalyse further socio-economic growth in Kalahandi and Rayagada districts.
The 16-point memorandum submitted by the community reflects their well-considered, legitimate demands and their unwavering faith in the Odisha Government’s ability to drive equitable and sustainable development. Their collective voice carries a hopeful message: with timely intervention and support, the region can continue its journey toward progress, becoming a beacon of growth for tribal and backward regions across India.
The rally concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing optimism that their earnest appeal will be met with the Chief Minister’s proactive action, ensuring the sustained prosperity of Lanjigarh and its people.