No Plans On Granting Mining Lease In Odisha’s Gandhamardan Hills, Says Centre Amid Project Fears

The Centre confirmed that the Odisha government has no plans to grant mining leases in the ecologically sensitive Gandhamardan Hills, a biodiversity-rich area with cultural significance and home to numerous plant and animal species. The region, declared a ‘Biodiversity Heritage Site of Odisha,’ has faced protests over potential mining projects, prompting assurances of protection from the state government. The protection of the hills is crucial for the indigenous population, with regulations in place to safeguard against violations of the Forest Rights Act and ensure environmental safeguards are followed for development projects.

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