Bhubaneswar, Dec 9: At least 518 migrant workers from Odisha have lost their lives while working in other states between 2021 and November 2025, Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia informed the Assembly on Tuesday. The data was shared in response to a written question raised by BJD MLA Arun Kumar Sahoo.

The minister stated that the mortal remains of 395 workers were brought back to their native villages during the period, underscoring the tragic impact of out-migration on many families dependent on labour opportunities outside Odisha.

According to district-wise figures, Kalahandi recorded the highest number of deaths with 60, followed by Berhampur in Ganjam district with 56. Other affected regions include Bolangir (38), Nabarangpur (35), Kandhamal (34), Rayagada (34) and Chatrapur in Ganjam district (26). The numbers highlight the risks faced by migrant labourers working in often challenging and unsafe conditions.

Singkhuntia further informed the House that 1,107 contractors were issued licenses in 2025 (up to November) under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979. These contractors facilitated the migration of 70,360 workers to different states for employment.

Migration data revealed that Bolangir district accounted for the highest number of outgoing workers in 2025, with 54,581 individuals seeking employment elsewhere. It was followed by Nuapada (8,655), Ganjam (2,553), Bargarh (1,459) and Dhenkanal (1,064).

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