Continuing Struggle

The economic transformation of societies through resource capitalization is a complex, context-specific process influenced by political, social, and economic factors. In India, the mining sector exemplifies this process, mainly through the coordination between the state and private capital, embodying a model of “coordinated capitalism.” Despite claims of economic growth and job creation, mining has led to social exclusion, poverty, and environmental degradation in these areas. Social movements, especially those focused on Indigenous rights and environmentalism, challenge the mining model, but the state’s alignment with capitalist interests often undermines their impact. While mining is touted as a development strategy, the local population’s demand for welfare services—such as water access, livelihood support, and social security—remains unmet. Mining projects displace communities and prioritize industrial growth over local well-being, reinforcing economic inequalities. The position of a democratic state is often questioned by the local community as they reject the state narrative of development.