Iron Ore Leads the Charge
Iron ore remains the dominant mineral, accounting for nearly 70% of the total MCDR production by value. India produced 289 million metric tonnes (MMT) of iron ore in FY 2024-25. During April–May 2025, iron ore production rose slightly by 0.6%, from 52.7 MMT to 53.0 MMT.
This growth reflects the rising demand from the domestic steel industry, a key driver of India’s infrastructure and economic ambitions.
Uptick in Key Mineral Production
Other minerals also showed positive growth trends:
- Manganese ore: Up by 1.4% to 0.70 MMT
- Bauxite: Increased 0.9% to 4.73 MMT
- Zinc Concentrate: Rose 3.7% to 0.28 MMT
- Limestone: Grew 1.6% to 81.4 MMT
The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for April 2025 also confirmed this growth trajectory. For example, production of bauxite jumped 13.6% year-on-year, while zinc concentrate rose by 5.8%.
Non-Ferrous Metals Register Strong Gains
India’s non-ferrous metal segment is also seeing robust performance:
- Aluminium: Production climbed by 1.3% to 7.07 lakh tonnes (LT)
- Refined Copper: Surged 43.5% from 0.69 LT to 0.99 LT
India now ranks as the second-largest aluminium producer, one of the top 10 in copper, and the third-largest producer of iron ore globally. These positions reflect India’s expanding role in global mineral supply chains.
Boost for India’s Industrial Core
This sustained mineral and metal growth directly supports several industries:
- Energy: Aluminium and copper are essential in power transmission and renewables
- Construction: Iron ore and limestone feed into steel and cement sectors
- Automotive and Machinery: Use non-ferrous metals extensively
Continued mining and metal production indicates strong demand from these end-user industries. It also affirms India’s stable industrial outlook amidst global uncertainties.
Conclusion
The growth in mineral and metal output during FY 2025-26 positions India well to meet its domestic needs and export commitments. It also supports the government’s goal of making India a global manufacturing hub under Make in India.
With steady policy support and rising demand, the mining sector will continue playing a vital role in India’s economic expansion in the years ahead.
