Psychological and Livelihood Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Mining Workers

Author(s)	Ms. Kalpana Tudu
Country	India
Abstract	The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching impacts on various sectors, with the mining industry, especially informal mining labour, bearing disproportionate consequences. This study examines the impact of the pandemic on the livelihoods, working conditions, and health status of mining workers in Joda Block, Keonjhar District, Odisha. Based on primary data collected from 100 mining workers across three operational mines, this study adopts a mixed-methods approach to analyse pre- and during-pandemic differences. Statistical analysis, including paired t-tests, reveals significant declines in income and consumption, with increased occupational health risks. The study highlights systemic vulnerabilities in the informal mining workforce and calls for policy reforms focused on social protection, occupational safety, and health infrastructure.
Keywords	COVID-19, Mining Workers, Informal Labour, Occupational Health, Livelihood, Labour Economics
Field	Sociology > Economics
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On	2026-03-05

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