Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL), the state-owned copper producer, has received forest clearance for its Chandmari copper mine in Rajasthan, a key regulatory approval that enables the company to pursue mining operations at the site. The clearance was issued by the Forest Department of the Government of Rajasthan in a letter dated 19 June 2026 and was received by the company on 23 June 2026. The Chandmari mining block is located in Jhunjhunu district.

The company stated that the forest clearance is co-terminus with the lease period of the Chandmari block, which permits mining activities to continue for the duration of the lease subject to applicable regulatory conditions. This legal alignment between the clearance and the lease tenure provides clarity on the regulatory framework that will govern the project during the lease term. The clearance covers the forest land requirements that were necessary for advancing development and operational planning.

Company executives described the approval as an important milestone as the firm advances development and operational plans for the Chandmari copper mine and works to strengthen its resource base in Rajasthan. The clearance is expected to facilitate mobilisation of resources and scheduling of site works that are contingent on statutory permissions and environmental safeguards. The company will remain bound by the conditions set out in the clearance and by any additional approvals that may be required under law.

With the forest clearance in place, HCL will integrate the authorisation into its project timetable and proceed with preparatory activities consistent with regulatory obligations and best practice. The firm will continue to engage with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure compliance as operations move forward within the lease period. The approval provides a regulatory foundation for the next phase of development at Chandmari.