New Delhi, August 29: Former Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan has countered the opposition from Odisha’s Leader of Opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik regarding the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
In response to Patnaik’s letter and his campaign against the bill, Pradhan questioned whether it is acceptable to mislead the people of Odisha by concealing facts and creating an atmosphere of fear. He emphasized the need for transparency and asked why there should be hesitation in presenting the truth to the public.
Pradhan described the MMDR amendment as a historic decision by the government led by PM Modi. He stated that this law aims to bring greater transparency and certainty to the mining sector while safeguarding the economic interests of mineral-rich states like Odisha.
He highlighted that nearly 90 percent of tax and statutory payments from mining go to the states. Under the revised framework, Odisha will continue to receive its legitimate mining revenue, along with contributions from auction premiums, royalties, and the District Mineral Foundation (DMF).
Pradhan noted that the state’s mining revenue has surged from approximately ₹5,000 crores to ₹50,000 crores. He attributed this growth to the Modi government’s transparent e-auction policy and reforms in the mining sector.
He also mentioned the development of mining-affected areas through the DMF, stating that Odisha has received over ₹37,000 crores through this fund since 2015.
Pradhan asserted that Odisha’s MPs have supported this bill in Parliament, keeping in mind the state’s broader interests, industrial development, and youth employment.
He argued that excessive and repetitive taxes on minerals could increase the costs of essential raw materials like iron ore, coal, and cement, adversely affecting industries, infrastructure, and consumers. He stated, “The revised framework is a significant step towards creating a more predictable mining tax system and securing legitimate revenues for mineral-producing states.”
Pradhan urged Naveen Patnaik to rise above party politics as the Leader of Opposition and consider the facts, supporting this historic law in the broader interest of Odisha.
This political clash intensified after Patnaik challenged Odisha’s BJP MPs regarding the MMDR amendments and demanded the withdrawal of the law. Patnaik expressed concerns that the law could harm the interests of Odisha and potentially lead to revenue losses for the state.
Pradhan’s message is clear: Odisha’s mineral wealth should serve as the foundation for the state’s revenue, industrial development, infrastructure, and employment. The debate on the MMDR amendment bill should be based on facts, not fear and confusion.
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