Odisha has recorded the highest volume of forest land diversion for mining and non-forestry purposes over the last five years, according to information shared with the Lok Sabha. From April 2019 to March 2024, the state diverted a staggering 7,680.78 hectares of forest land, the highest in the country, surpassing other states in the forest diversion chart.

During this period, Odisha submitted 48 proposals for forest land diversion specifically for mining activities. Each of these proposals received approval, resulting in the significant conversion of forest areas to non-forestry uses under the Van (Sanrakhan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam Act, 1980.

Following Odisha, Madhya Pradesh ranked second in forest land diversion for mining, with 21 proposals approved, covering an area of 3,406.63 hectares. This significant diversion of forest land in Odisha highlights the state’s pivotal role in India’s mining sector, raising important considerations about the balance between industrial development and environmental conservation.