New Delhi: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy reviewed Hindustan Zinc operations in Rajasthan and said the mining sector would play a major role in achieving India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
The Minister visited the Rajpura Dariba Complex of Hindustan Zinc Limited, including the Sindesar Khurd Mine and Dariba Smelting Complex. Officials briefed him on underground mining operations, integrated smelting facilities, and community development programmes.
Kishan Reddy said India’s future industrial growth would depend on strong mineral resources, domestic capabilities, and technology-driven industries. He stated that Hindustan Zinc reflected the transformation of India’s mining sector into a modern and responsible growth engine.
According to the Minister, the company’s technology-focused mining-to-metal operations, safety standards, innovation, workforce diversity, and community initiatives aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Officials informed the Minister that Hindustan Zinc had an annual refined metal production capacity of more than 1.1 million tonnes. The company plays a major role in strengthening India’s mineral security and domestic metals ecosystem.
Hindustan Zinc operations showcase technology-driven mining
During the visit, Kishan Reddy undertook an underground inspection of the Sindesar Khurd Mine, described as one of the world’s largest silver-producing underground mines. Officials briefed him on mining history, production capacity, safety systems, paste filling, and tele-remote operations.
The Minister also visited the control room and observed demonstrations of remote-operated mining equipment. He later witnessed a live demonstration by India’s first women mine rescue team and appreciated the company’s focus on inclusion and safety.
Kishan Reddy interacted with contract workers, women mining engineers, and employees during the visit. He acknowledged their contribution to operational excellence and India’s mining sector growth.
At the Dariba Smelting Complex, the Minister reviewed control room operations, cell house facilities, and the cathode yard. Officials explained the company’s integrated mining-to-metal production systems and value-added metal manufacturing process.
The Minister also interacted with women leaders at the complex and praised the company’s efforts to improve workforce diversity in the mining and metals sector. According to officials, women currently account for 26.3 percent of the workforce.
Kishan Reddy later reviewed the company’s sustainability initiatives, including responsible mining, water conservation, energy transition, low-carbon growth, and resource efficiency programmes during discussions with company officials.
