India Breaks Records in Mineral(Mining) Production in FY 2024-25

India’s mining and non-ferrous metal sectors have achieved record-breaking production levels in FY 2024-25, building upon the momentum of the previous year. According to provisional data released by the Ministry of Mines, key minerals such as iron ore, manganese ore, and bauxite, as well as non-ferrous metals like aluminium and copper, registered significant year-on-year growth. This surge is driven by strong demand from core sectors including steel, construction, infrastructure, and automotive manufacturing.

Why in News?

The Ministry of Mines recently released provisional figures highlighting unprecedented growth in the production of critical minerals and non-ferrous metals in FY 2024-25. This reflects strong industrial demand and underlines India’s growing capabilities as a global supplier in the mineral and metal sectors.

Key Production Highlights (FY 2024–25)

Iron Ore

• Production reached 289 million metric tonnes (MMT).
• 4.3% increase over 277 MMT in FY 2023-24.
• Iron ore accounts for 70% of total MCDR mineral production by value.
• India is the 4th largest producer of iron ore globally.

Manganese Ore

• Reached 3.8 MMT, rising 11.8% from 3.4 MMT.

Bauxite

• Increased by 2.9%, from 24 MMT to 24.7 MMT.

Lead Concentrate

• Rose from 381 thousand tonnes (THT) to 393 THT, marking a 3.1% growth.

Non-Ferrous Metals Growth

Primary Aluminium

• Production hit 42 lakh tonnes (LT), up from 41.6 LT.
• India is the 2nd largest aluminium producer in the world.

Refined Copper

• Production surged by 12.6%, from 5.09 LT to 5.73 LT.
• India ranks among the top 10 producers globally.

Industrial Relevance and Economic Impact

• The increased output aligns with the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat missions.

Supports core industries

• Steel (iron ore),
• Energy (aluminium, copper),
• Infrastructure & Construction,
• Automotive & Machinery.
• Reflects robust domestic and export demand.
• Strengthens supply chain resilience and foreign exchange earnings.