Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa’s mining industry, once the backbone of the state’s economy, continues to grapple with disruptions, impacting thousands of livelihoods and depleting state revenues. With each passing day of stalled operations, Goa reportedly loses nearly ₹2.5 crore in revenue, a figure that underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to the crisis, as per estimates from the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters’ Association (GMOEA).
The halt in mining operations, which began in 2012 and intermittently resumed in 2015, has created a ripple effect across communities. Local contractors, truckers, and daily-wage workers are among the hardest hit. Ganesh, a businessman in Mulgao affected by the standstill, remarked: “Since mining stopped, our business has suffered greatly. Truckers and workers also faced challenges, but the company supported us during these difficult times. If mining resumes fully, it will benefit everyone, including our children.”
The transportation sector, a crucial link in the mining ecosystem, has been particularly affected. Each day of halted ore movement costs the state and stakeholders dearly. Anil Naik, ex panch of Samaras, emphasized, “Truckers have repaired their vehicles and are ready to work again. But the frequent disruptions prevent them from earning. The government must intervene to ensure smooth operations. Mining sustains entire families, and its shutdown leaves us with no alternatives.”
According to industry insiders, Goa has lost an estimated ₹15,000 crore in revenue since the mining ban in 2012. Additionally, the cascading effect on peripheral industries—such as vehicle repair shops, logistics companies, and local markets—has been devastating.
The population in mining-dependent villages has faced severe economic setbacks, with many taking up low-paying temporary jobs to make ends meet. Naik shared, “Even when mines were closed, some of us survived on small jobs offered by contractors like Vedanta, but it wasn’t enough. The future looks bleak if mining is permanently shut.”
Historically, affected populations were overlooked for mining jobs or contracts. However, since 2005, companies have increasingly focused on local engagement. Companies like Vedanta Sesa Goa have even paid partial salaries to employees during prolonged shutdowns. Despite these efforts, unresolved disputes between local communities and mining operators have created fresh roadblocks, halting progress.
Affected communities and industry leaders are urging the government to step in with practical solutions. A collaborative approach involving local groups, operators, and authorities is essential to ensure responsible mining practices and sustained economic growth.
Mining stakeholders stress that uninterrupted operations are vital for generating revenue, creating jobs, and stabilizing Goa’s economy. The multiplier effect of mining, with one mining job creating up to 10 indirect jobs, could rejuvenate the state’s financial health and uplift affected communities.
