The Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and JSW Steel have achieved a remarkable milestone in sustainable mining as their mines in Odisha have been awarded the coveted ‘5-Star Rating’ for 2023-24 by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. The recognition was conferred at a prestigious awards ceremony held on July 7, 2025, at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur, where Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, presented the awards as part of IBM’s annual recognition programme.

OMC’s Daitari Iron Ore Mines and Kodingamali Bauxite Mines, along with JSW Steel’s Narayanposhi Iron and Manganese Mine, have been acknowledged for their outstanding achievements in systematic mine planning, environmental safeguards, progressive mining practices, and community engagement initiatives. These mines have adopted international best practices to ensure minimal ecological impact while meaningfully contributing to the development of surrounding communities through welfare programmes.

The 5-Star Rating is considered the highest recognition in the Indian mining sector, awarded to mining leases that demonstrate excellence in scientific and systematic mining, environmental conservation, adoption of global standards, and socio-economic initiatives for local communities. This accolade highlights Odisha’s growing leadership in promoting responsible and sustainable mining that balances industrial progress with environmental preservation.

The award for JSW Steel Ltd was received by Gajraj Singh Rathore, Additional Director and Wholetime Director designated as Chief Operating Officer, from Union Minister G Kishan Reddy in the presence of Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Also present during the felicitation ceremony were Sauvick Mazumder, Chief Operating Officer of JSW Steel Odisha; Ram Shankar Sharma, Head of Mines Operations and Projects; Tapan Rath, Mine Manager; and Ankita Singh from the Mines Planning division.