CAG Audit Finds Odisha Mining Funds Diverted to Stadiums and Roads
· India · Hindustan Times, Indian Express
A performance audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India has revealed that District Mineral Foundation funds in Odisha were frequently diverted to projects unrelated to mining-affected areas. Between 2015-16 and 2023-24, only 54% of the ₹10,104 crore spent in six audited districts went to directly affected communities, with the remainder funding hockey stadiums, government vehicles, and hospital digitisation. The audit found that districts like Keonjhar and Sundargarh failed to meet the mandatory 60% expenditure requirement for directly affected areas. Officials reportedly used an administrative classification called 'common affected areas' to justify spending in regions not impacted by mining, a category the CAG noted is not recognised under state or national rules. The report was officially presented to the state assembly on Monday.
Why it matters
The diversion of funds meant for environmental and social compensation deprives mining-affected communities of essential healthcare, infrastructure, and development support.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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