PANAJI: Calling for environmentally responsible and technology-driven mining practices, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said sustainable mining must remain at the center of Goa’s mining revival as the state moves ahead with the resumption of operations across 18 auctioned mineral blocks with an estimated production capacity of 19 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
Addressing the International Conference on Iron Ore 2026, organized by Metalogic PMS in Goa today, Sawant said the revival of mining has started restoring economic confidence in the state after years of slowdown caused by the suspension of operations.
“Goa is globally recognized not only for its economic potential but also for its biodiversity, ecology, tourism, and natural beauty. Therefore, mining activity in Goa must always balance economic development and environmental responsibility,” Sawant said.
He said the state government is committed to scientific mining practices, strict environmental compliance, reclamation measures, water conservation, and community welfare while reviving the sector in a transparent and legally compliant manner.
Sawant noted that mining had historically been the backbone of Goa’s economy, supporting lakhs of livelihoods, both directly and indirectly. “The entire ecosystem developed around mining activities, including barge operations, truck transportation, machinery services, ship loading operations, local trade, and thousands of small businesses,” he said.
Referring to the mining ban imposed after 2012, Sawant said the suspension had caused one of the most difficult economic phases in Goa’s history.
“Economic activities slowed down considerably in mining-dependent regions. Thousands of workers lost employment. Transportation and the barge sector suffered heavily, and many small businesses faced serious financial difficulties,” he said.
Sawant said the government held continuous consultations with the Centre, legal experts, industry stakeholders, and local communities to ensure mining could restart responsibly. This successful rollout, he added, is leading to the gradual return of employment opportunities, transport activity, port operations, and businesses linked to the mining ecosystem.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on the scientific utilization of low-grade iron ore dumps accumulated over decades.
“These dumps represent both an environmental challenge and an economic opportunity. Through scientific recovery and resource utilization, we aim to promote beneficiation, processing, and value addition within the state,” he said.
Sawant stressed that India should increasingly move away from dependence on raw material exports and instead focus on value addition through pelletisation, steel manufacturing, downstream industries, and advanced mineral processing.
“Every tonne of ore processed within India generates higher economic returns, greater employment opportunities and a stronger industrial ecosystem,” he said.
Highlighting India’s infrastructure growth, Sawant said the country is witnessing massive investments in highways, railways, ports, airports, metro rail, industrial corridors, renewable energy, and defence manufacturing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He said flagship initiatives such as PM GatiShakti, Bharatmala, Sagarmala, the National Logistics Policy, and Dedicated Freight Corridors are strengthening industrial competitiveness and supply chain efficiency. “India has already become the world’s second-largest steel producer and is targeting 300 million tonnes of steel production capacity by 2030,” he said.
Sawant also underlined Goa’s logistical strengths through the Mormugao Port Authority, inland waterways, and barge transportation network. “The inland water transport system through barges has historically been one of Goa’s greatest strengths and remains one of the most sustainable and cost-effective transportation systems available for bulk cargo movement,” he said.
He urged industries to adopt cleaner logistics systems, including mechanised handling infrastructure, covered transportation, pipe conveyor systems, advanced dust-suppression technologies, and digital monitoring systems, to reduce congestion and environmental impact.
“Responsible mining is not merely a regulatory requirement. It is essential for long-term economic sustainability and social acceptance,” Sawant added.
