NMDC to Invest Rs 70,000 Crore to Boost Iron Ore Production to 100 Million Tonnes
The state-owned iron ore mining giant, NMDC (National Mineral Development Corporation), has announced plans to invest a significant Rs 70,000 crore in capital expenditure over the next five years. The company aims to ramp up its iron ore production capacity to 100 million tonnes annually by 2030, a move that will play a key role in supporting India’s growing steel production needs and positioning NMDC as a major player in the global mining industry.
The expansion strategy, unveiled by Managing Director Amitava Mukherjee, is aligned with the vision of the National Steel Policy 2017, which targets a domestic steel production capacity of 300 million tonnes by the end of this decade. Mukherjee described the target of 100 million tonnes as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” for NMDC to build a mining powerhouse that will not only meet national demand but also contribute to India’s position in the global mining market. NMDC’s 100 million tonne target reflects a significant shift in the company’s operations. In the fiscal year 2023-24, NMDC produced 45.02 million tonnes of iron ore and sold 44.48 million tonnes, marking a solid performance but with ample room for growth. The company also exceeded its capital expenditure target in the previous fiscal year, investing a record Rs 2,066 crore, surpassing its original target of Rs 1,769 crore by 17%. This strong investment indicates a clear commitment to infrastructure development and capacity enhancement.
The planned Rs 70,000 crore investment will focus on increasing production capacity, upgrading evacuation infrastructure, and enhancing the company’s digital ecosystem. Key to this vision is the development of state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure that will streamline the mining and transportation processes, reducing bottlenecks and improving efficiency. As part of its expansion efforts, NMDC will also invest in digital solutions to enhance operational transparency, streamline data management, and improve decision-making in real time.
Mukherjee’s call to vendors to gear up financially and resourcefully underscores the scale of the upcoming expansion. The company is looking to build long-term relationships with suppliers and partners who can provide timely deliveries and top-quality inputs, ensuring that the ambitious targets are met within the set timelines. By working closely with its network of vendors, NMDC aims to support the infrastructure and technological upgrades that will be pivotal in achieving the company’s 100 million tonne production target. NMDC’s investments are not just limited to capacity expansion. The company is also deeply focused on enhancing its existing mines in Chhattisgarh and Karnataka, where it currently operates. As a major supplier of iron ore for India’s steel production, NMDC’s efforts to improve efficiency and increase output will contribute to the government’s broader goal of self-sufficiency in steel production.
The strategic expansion is set to create new employment opportunities, bolster infrastructure in mining regions, and support India’s ambitious industrial goals. By reinforcing its position as a key player in the global mining sector, NMDC is poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth. As the company continues to expand its operations, the impact on India’s mining landscape will be profound. The increased capacity and improved infrastructure will not only support the steel industry but also help propel India towards becoming a major player in global mining and mineral exports. With the projected investment in place, NMDC is on track to achieve its long-term goals, securing its place as a leader in the mining sector.
