Dhenkanal, May 8: Dhenkanal district, known for its mining, industry, and agriculture, has traditionally attracted laborers from other parts of Odisha and beyond. However, in recent years, many local laborers are leaving the district to work in other states due to lack of employment, higher wages elsewhere, and the mentality of working outside.
Government records indicate that labor migration has been increasing since the post-COVID period:
2020–2021: No laborers officially sent for work outside the district.
2022: 100 laborers sent through licensed contractors.
2023: 1,130 laborers through 13 contractors.
2024: 480 laborers through 7 contractors.
2025: 1,704 laborers through 19 contractors.
This upward trend is expected to continue in 2026, according to official estimates.
The labor department manages migration under strict licensing procedures, ensuring contractors have proper authorization to send workers outside. Despite this, the actual number of laborers leaving Dhenkanal is reportedly higher than government records indicate. For example, in 2021, 24 laborers were intercepted by police while being taken to Tamil Nadu illegally.
The main reasons for migration include:
· Lack of employment opportunities in the district
· Higher wages offered in other states
· Inadequate engagement of local labor in industrial and manufacturing setups
Although the district now hosts several industries and factories, allegations persist that local laborers are not being employed adequately, leading to increased migration. The labor department maintains that there is no shortage of work locally, but critics point out that many positions in new industrial units remain inaccessible to local workers.
The government is also taking steps to promote more industries in the district, which could create employment opportunities, but whether local laborers will benefit remains uncertain.
