Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL), the country’s only integrated copper miner, reported a 9% increase in metal in concentrate (MIC) production at 27,421 tonnes for FY26, marking its highest output in the past seven years.
Ore production during the year rose 6% to 3.67 million tonnes, while sales of 27,367 tonnes of copper MIC represented the company’s best performance in the last five years.
Operational resilience drives growth
The performance was achieved despite a challenging operating environment, with the company highlighting coordinated efforts across key functional areas as a critical factor.
HCL demonstrated operational resilience and adaptability, sustaining its growth trajectory through focused execution and continuous improvement initiatives.
Advancing long-term capacity goals
The company continues to make steady progress towards its strategic objective of achieving 12.2 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) mining capacity by 2030.
All ongoing initiatives are aligned with this long-term vision, as HCL seeks to strengthen its position in India’s mining sector while scaling operations.
Key milestones across operations
During the year, the company recorded several operational and strategic milestones, including the resumption of mining operations at Kendadih, Kolihan and Surda mines.
It also made progress in securing long-pending statutory clearances, including Chandmari, and entered into an auction lease through the Sidhi Copper Block.
Greenfield project development advanced across locations such as Sikkim, Dhobani, Pathargora and Chile, along with the initiation of exploration at the Bodal Block.
The company also awarded contracts worth over ₹1,400 crore, strengthening its project execution pipeline.
Focus on technology and sustainability
HCL continued to invest in advanced mining technologies and sustainable practices. The paste fill plant at the Malanjkhand Copper Project stands out as one of India’s first large-scale applications of paste backfill technology, enabling safer underground mining and reuse of tailings.
Additionally, the deployment of battery-operated load-haul-dump (LHD) machines in underground mines reflects a shift towards low-emission, energy-efficient operations, improving safety and reducing environmental impact.
Strategic outlook
HCL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Kumar Singh said responsible resource utilisation, environmental stewardship and social responsibility will remain central to operations.
Looking ahead, HCL remains focused on enhancing operational capabilities, strengthening sustainability practices and progressing towards its Vision Plan 2030, including its aspiration to achieve Navratna status.