Metals & Mining
India achieves record coal production of 997.83 MT in FY24, targets 1.5 BT by 2030
India's highest-ever coal production of 997.826 million tonnes was achieved in FY 2023-24, marking an 11.71% growth. The power sector and non-regulated sector received significant supplies. The Ministry of Coal is targeting 1.5 billion tonnes by 2030 and enhancing mine safety and transparency.
Govt issues allocation order to Hindalco Industries for coal mine in Odisha
The government has allocated the Meenakshi coal mine in Odisha to Hindalco Industries Ltd. The mine has a peak rating capacity of 12 million tonnes per annum. It is expected to generate an annual revenue of Rs 1,152.84 crore. The development is also likely to provide employment to around 16,224 individuals, contributing to the region's economic growth.
India's coal industry set for major action in 2025; trading exchange, output boost on high-priority list
In 2025, the coal sector is expected to launch a coal exchange, enhance coal output, and focus on coal gasification for energy transition. India’s thermal and coking coal production, aligned with growing energy and steel demands, is projected to see significant growth, supported by government policies and incentive schemes.
Govt asks GSI to redefine TN tungsten mine block, exclude biodiversity site
The Centre has asked the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to reassess the Nayakkarpatti tungsten mine in Tamil Nadu, excluding the biodiversity site. The Tamil Nadu government is requested to hold the issuance of the Letter of Intent. Hindustan Zinc Ltd is the preferred bidder, but objections have been raised due to the biodiversity heritage site within the block.
India to kick off critical minerals mission to bolster energy transition, EV manufacturing
India is launching a Critical Mineral Mission in 2025 to secure vital resources for green energy and technology. The initiative involves government, industry, and research collaboration, focusing on acquiring overseas assets like lithium and cobalt, particularly in Australia, and boosting domestic mining through auctions and roadshows.
Govt set to organise roadshow on offshore mineral block auction at Porbandar
The Indian government is hosting a roadshow in Porbandar, Gujarat, to promote the sale of offshore mineral blocks. The event will detail the auction process for 13 blocks, including lime mud off Gujarat's coast and other resources in the Arabian Sea and Andaman Sea. Experts will discuss the mineral potential and the transparent e-auction platform.
Jharkhand govt initiates process for legal action to realise 'coal dues' from Centre
The Jharkhand government has initiated legal proceedings against the central government to recover Rs 1.36 lakh crore in outstanding coal dues. The state government authorized the Secretary of Revenue to commence legal action following a cabinet meeting decision.
Girl power in action: Singareni Collieries to allocate 2 mines for women staff to operate
Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) is set to dedicate two coal mines, one opencast and one underground, exclusively for women employees. This initiative aims to promote gender inclusivity in the mining sector. The mines are expected to be operational next month, following a training period for the women employees.
NCL spends over Rs 1,000 cr in last 10 yrs under CSR initiatives
Northern Coalfields Ltd (NCL) has invested over Rs 1,000 crore in corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects over the past decade, impacting nearly 10 lakh people. This year, NCL launched 'CHARAK,' a health initiative offering free treatment for life-threatening diseases to economically weaker residents in Singrauli and Sonbhadra districts with annual family incomes below Rs 8 lakh.
IREL, Kazakh company to form joint venture to harness India's titanium potential
Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL) partners with a Kazakhstan-based company to boost India's titanium production. This joint venture will process low-grade ilmenite into high-demand titanium slag, crucial for aerospace and defense. The project aims to establish a robust titanium value chain, creating thousands of jobs and bolstering India's strategic capabilities.
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CIL's CSR expenditure crosses Rs 5,570 Cr in 10 years
Coal India invested Rs 5,570 crore in community development over the last ten years. The company supported education, healthcare, and skill-building programs. West Bengal's Governor commended Coal India's positive impact on tribal areas. The Coal Secretary urged coal companies to prioritize community needs. A theme-based CSR calendar was suggested.
Coal imports up 4% at 162 MT in April-October period
India's coal imports saw a 4.2% rise to 162.45 million tonnes during April-October FY24, despite a 14.4% drop in October to 21.84 MT. Non-coking coal imports increased slightly due to festive season demand, while coking coal remained steady. The Coal Minister urged the steel industry to reduce its reliance on imported coal, aiming for increased domestic production.
Hindustan Copper tightens contract eligibility norms post CAG report
Hindustan Copper (HCL) has strengthened its contract award criteria following scrutiny from India's Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). The CAG criticized HCL for awarding a significant mining contract to a financially unstable firm, IVRCL, despite the company being blacklisted by other entities. HCL now incorporates stricter financial checks and quarterly performance-based penalties in its contracts.
Vedanta sets up 'VeDakshata' skills training centre in Odisha's Sundargarh
Vedanta Aluminium launched a skills training center, VeDakshata, in Odisha. The center offers courses like sewing, electrical maintenance, and food services. It aims to train 700 youth over three years. The first batch has 105 students enrolled. The center has modern facilities, including hostels. It partners with LearnNet Skills Limited.
Govt gives LoAs to 4 entities to avail incentives for coal gasification projects
The Indian government awarded four entities over Rs 4,150 crore in incentives for coal gasification projects. These projects, spearheaded by CIL-BHEL, CIL-GAIL, Coal India, and New Era Cleantech, will produce ammonium nitrate, synthetic natural gas, and ethanol, involving a total investment exceeding Rs 47,000 crore.
India's copper demand surges 13% in FY2024, driven by economic growth & infrastructure boom
Copper demand in India grew 13% in FY2024, reaching 1700 kilotonnes, driven by economic expansion, particularly in building construction and infrastructure. While domestic copper production has been flat due to smelter closures, imports surged by 103%. The sector is also heavily reliant on scrap copper, raising quality concerns.
