Bhubaneswar: Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, under the department of atomic energy , on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the exploration of critical minerals in Odisha .




The partnership will focus on research, scientific and technical knowledge exchange, capacity-building, joint studies and adoption of advanced exploration technologies within OMC’s mining leases and other mineral-bearing areas in the state, said an OMC statement.




The collaboration comes amid the Centre’s push to secure critical mineral resources through National Critical Mineral Mission (NCCM), launched in Jan 2025. The mission aims to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic mineral value chains and support sectors such as clean energy, advanced technology and strategic industries.




Officials said the partnership is expected to accelerate discovery and development of critical and strategic minerals in Odisha, helping position the state as a major hub for critical minerals and high-technology industries. The initiative is also aligned with India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in critical mineral resources.




A wholly owned Odisha govt PSU, OMC is among the country’s largest mining companies. It produces chrome ore, iron ore, bauxite, manganese and limestone, supplying key mineral-based industries, including steel and aluminium.




In 2025-26, OMC recorded its highest-ever mineral production of 44.82 million tonnes. Iron ore output touched a record 40.02 million tonnes, up 12.06% year-on-year, while chrome ore and bauxite production stood at 1.69 million tonnes and 2.83 million tonnes, respectively. Mineral sales reached 42.52 million tonnes, helping the corporation post its highest-ever revenue of Rs 25,300 crore.