OMC signs MoU with AMD to explore critical minerals in Odisha

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha Mining Corporation Ltd. (OMC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, to collaborate on the exploration and development of critical minerals in Odisha.

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The agreement aims to strengthen domestic critical mineral supplies in line with the Government of India's National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM). Under the MoU, OMC and AMD will collaborate on research, exchange of scientific and technical information, sharing of expertise and exploration of critical minerals within OMC's mining lease areas and other locations across Odisha.

The partnership will focus on adopting modern exploration technologies, conducting scientific studies, sharing technical knowledge, building capacity and undertaking joint research initiatives to accelerate the discovery and development of critical and strategic minerals in the state.

Launched in January 2025, the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) seeks to secure a sustainable supply of critical minerals essential for India's clean energy transition, technological advancement and strategic sectors. The mission also aims to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic mineral value chains and enhance India's global competitiveness.

The collaboration is expected to support Odisha's emergence as a key centre for critical minerals and high-technology industries while contributing to India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in critical mineral resources.

OMC, a wholly owned corporation of the Government of Odisha, is among India's major mining companies. Its principal minerals include chrome ore, iron ore, bauxite, manganese and limestone, which serve industries such as steel, aluminium, sponge iron, pig iron, ferro-manganese and ferro-chrome.

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In the financial year 2025-26, OMC recorded its highest-ever mineral production of 44.82 million tonnes. Iron ore production reached a record 40.02 million tonnes, registering year-on-year growth of 12.06%. Chrome ore production stood at 1.69 million tonnes, while bauxite output reached 2.83 million tonnes.

The corporation reported total mineral sales of 42.524 million tonnes during the year and achieved its highest-ever revenue of Rs 25,300 crore.

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