Niyamgiri hill is located in Orissa's Kalahandi district. It is a significant mountain range in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is home to the Dongria Kondh tribe, who rely on the hill for their livelihoods and consider it sacred. The hill's forests are rich in biodiversity, including rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

The Controversy surrounding Niyamgiri Hill:

The Niyamgiri hill gained national and international attention due to a controversy over mining rights. Vedanta Resources, a UK-based mining corporation, proposed a bauxite mining project in the area, which would have had a significant environmental impact on the region and the Dongria Kondh tribe's way of life.

In 2013, the Indian government rejected Vedanta's mining application, citing concerns about the environmental impact on the hill and the Dongria Kondh community. This decision was seen as a significant victory for the Dongria Kondh and their campaign to protect their land and way of life.

Conclusion:

Niyamgiri hill is a unique natural and cultural heritage site in Orissa. Its significance goes beyond its ecological value, as it is also a sacred site for the Dongria Kondh community. The controversy surrounding the proposed mining project on the hill highlights the importance of protecting and preserving cultural and environmental resources for the benefit of local communities and future generations.