The tribals-dominated Mayurbhanj district is quite rich in resources and thus, has the potential of growing into an industrial hub; but, unfortunately, the bordering district’s industrial scenario is dismal.
It was more than 100 years ago that Jamsedji Nasarwanji Tata recognised this aspect of Mayurbhanj and decided to set up a world-class steel plant, basing on its immense potential. But unfortunately, he chose Tatanagar (now in Jharkhand), instead of some place in Mayurbhanj, as the site for his dream project.
Had it not been so, Mayurbhanj now would have found a proud place in the industrial map of the country. It is an irony that though Mayurbhanj is utterly deprived of industry, though the iron ores of Badamapahar and Gorumahisani areas of this district have sustained the Tata Steel plant since the very beginning.
That apart, Mayurbhanj still has rich forest resources like Sal leaves, Sabai grass and so many other types of valuable forest produce.
But there has been no worthwhile attempt so far to tap these resources and go for industry in this ever-neglected, backward district.
The tragedy is that whatever was there in the industrial scenario of Mayurbhanj has been on the decline over the years. Baripada Spinning Mill, NICCO, printing units and saw mills of Baripada, Rairangpur, Karanjia and Badampahar are the few such examples. Mayurbhanj Hosiery, Baripada Ayurvedic Medicinal Plant, Rajaloka Sugar Mill and Bahalda Glass Factory etc also need to be mentioned.
All these have been shut down in course of time.