NMDC has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year, marking a major milestone ahead of the close of FY 2025-26.
NMDC Hits Historic 50 Million Tonnes Iron Ore Output in FY26
New Delhi: State-owned mining major NMDC Limited has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes (MT) of iron ore in a single financial year. The milestone was achieved just days before the end of FY 2025-26.
The achievement marks a significant development for the company, which operates under the Ministry of Steel and plays a key role in supplying iron ore to the domestic steel industry.
Founded in 1958 to develop India’s iron ore resources, NMDC has steadily expanded its production capacity over the decades. The company produced about 10 million tonnes of iron ore in 1978.
Production has since increased fivefold, reaching 50 million tonnes in the current financial year. The company has recorded accelerated growth in recent years, with output rising from around 30 million tonnes in 2015 to the present level.
Officials said nearly one-fifth of the current production capacity has been added over the last four years, reflecting the fastest phase of expansion in the company’s history.
The milestone comes as India aims to increase its steelmaking capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030. Ensuring a steady domestic supply of iron ore is considered essential to support the country’s infrastructure growth and industrial expansion. As the country’s largest iron ore producer, NMDC remains a crucial supplier for the steel sector.
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Commenting on the achievement, Amitava Mukherjee said the milestone reflects the company’s progress under its expansion strategy and operational improvements. He said the growth has been driven by stronger execution, responsible mining practices and a focus on supporting national priorities.
NMDC operates large, mechanised mines in mineral-rich regions of Chhattisgarh and Karnataka. The company said it will continue to focus on technological advancement, operational efficiency and sustainable mining as it prepares for the next phase of growth.
