Mineral Output Rises, Led by Iron and Bauxite

05 Jun 2025 CW Team

India’s mineral production continues to show positive momentum, with the index of mineral production for the mining and quarrying sector standing at 156.8 in March 2025—a 0.4 per cent rise over March 2024, according to the Ministry of Mines. Strong output in minerals like iron ore, manganese ore, and zinc concentrate contributed to this growth.

Iron ore production in March 2025 rose by 5.7 per cent year-on-year to 25.9 million metric tonnes (MMT), while manganese ore grew by 9.7 per cent to 0.39 MMT. Zinc concentrate output also saw a 5.5 per cent increase, reaching 0.19 MMT.

Iron ore remains the backbone of India's mineral economy, accounting for 70 per cent of the total MCDR (Mineral Conservation and Development Rules) mineral production by value. In FY 2024–25, the country achieved a record production of 289 MMT of iron ore.

Provisional data for April 2025—the first month of FY 2025–26—shows further growth across several key minerals. Bauxite production increased by 13.9 per cent to 2.13 MMT, up from 1.87 MMT in April 2024. Limestone output rose by 1.2 per cent to 40.5 MMT, while lead and zinc ore production climbed 2.4 per cent to 1.27 MMT. Zinc concentrate also saw a notable 7.7 per cent increase, reaching 0.14 MMT.

In the non-ferrous segment, primary aluminium production rose by 1.5 per cent year-on-year to 347,000 tonnes in April 2025, while refined copper production surged by 15.6 per cent to 52,000 tonnes.

India remains the world’s second-largest producer of aluminium and ranks among the top ten in refined copper production. The consistent growth in output across these key minerals reflects continued strength in downstream sectors such as energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive, and capital machinery.

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