A missed opportunity for transformative development: What Kalahandi stands to gain from its bauxite reserves

IN the heart of Odisha lies Kalahandi, a region abundant in heritage, resilience, and natural wealth. Yet, despite its potential, it remains one of the most underdeveloped areas in the country, long associated with poverty, deprivation, and despair. For decades, families here have struggled for survival, mothers have been forced into heart-wrenching choices just to feed their children, and infant mortality rates have remained alarmingly high.

- PBD BUREAU

Beneath the hills of Lanjigarh, however, lies a promise of change — vast reserves of bauxite that could transform the socioeconomic landscape of the district.

Some industrial activity in Lanjigarh has already brought improvements in healthcare, education, and livelihoods. However, the full potential of these mineral reserves remains untapped, and with each year of delay, local communities — especially those in scheduled areas — are denied the benefits they desperately need.