NMDC becomes first Indian miner to cross 50 MT output, sets 100 MT target for 2030

NMDC Limited, India's largest iron ore producer, has reaffirmed its commitment to mineral security and industrial growth as the country celebrates its Independence Day. Speaking at the company's headquarters on Saturday, Chairman and Managing Director Amitava Mukherjee highlighted NMDC's achievements and outlined its future targets, positioning the state-owned firm as a key player in India's push towards self-reliance.

The company reported an iron ore production of 53.15 million tonnes (MT) and sales of 50.23 MT for the financial year 2025-26. With this performance, NMDC became the first mining company in India to cross the 50 MT production milestone, a significant marker for the sector. Mukherjee announced that the company has set a production target of 60 MT for the financial year 2026-27, with a longer-term goal of reaching 100 MT by 2030.

In the first quarter of the current financial year (April to June 2026), NMDC recorded a production of 15.12 MT, a 26% increase compared to the same period last year. Sales during the quarter stood at 11.73 MT, generating a turnover of ₹6,795 crore. The robust quarterly performance aligns with the company's strategy to scale up operations and meet rising domestic demand for iron ore, driven by infrastructure projects and steel production.

Beyond iron ore, NMDC is diversifying into other critical areas such as coal, steel, and strategic minerals. The Nagarnar Steel Plant, a major subsidiary project, has crossed cumulative hot metal production of 7 MT and has reported profitable operations for two consecutive quarters. This diversification is part of the company's broader effort to become an integrated mining and metal production entity, reducing India's dependence on imports of key raw materials.

NMDC also drew attention to its social initiatives, which are integral to its corporate responsibility framework. Among these are the Balika Shiksha Yojana and the Chhoo Lo Aasmaan programmes, both aimed at supporting young women through education and skill development. The company said these efforts reflect its commitment to inclusive growth alongside industrial expansion.

The announcements come at a time when India is focusing on strengthening its mineral security to support infrastructure development and the transition to clean energy. Iron ore is a critical input for steelmaking, and NMDC's production targets are expected to help meet the growing demand from domestic industries. As a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Steel, NMDC plays a strategic role in the country's economic self-reliance.

Industry observers note that NMDC's trajectory from 50 MT to 100 MT will require significant investments in mining infrastructure, logistics, and technology. The company has not yet disclosed its capital expenditure plan for the expansion, but the targets indicate a long-term vision aligned with national priorities. For now, the record production and optimistic targets signal confidence in India's industrial future.