Hindustan Zinc, world’s largest integrated zinc producer, was felicitated with 6 awards at the 29th Bhamashah Awards for longstanding and deeply impactful contributions to school education in Rajasthan. 5 units of the company, Rampura Agucha Mine, Chanderiya Lead Zinc Smelter, Zawar Mines, Rajpura Dariba Complex, and Zinc Smelter Debari were recognized under Shiksha Vibhushan category and Kayad Lead Zinc Mine under Shiksha Bhushan category for sustained efforts in strengthening both physical infrastructure and learning outcomes across the state. The award function was graced by the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan- Bhajan Lal Sharma; Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan- Prem Chand Bhairwa; Education Minister of Rajasthan- Madan Dilawar; Principal Secretary Education - Krishna Kunal; Distinguished government dignitaries -Vishwa Mohan Shrivastav, Sitaram Jat, Shrimati. Anupama Jorwal, along with leadership team from various units of Hindustan Zinc.The Bhamashah Awards—named after the famed patron of education and philanthropy—are conferred annually by the Government of Rajasthan to individuals and institutions making exemplary contributions to school education. Hindustan Zinc has consistently featured among top awardees over the years, further cementing its reputation as a people-first and purpose-driven enterprise.Over the last eight years (2017–2025), Hindustan Zinc has invested over Rs 4.30 billion towards education-focused social development, including Rs 809 million on infrastructure upgrades—such as classroom construction, washrooms, playgrounds, drinking water facilities, and elec0trification—and Rs 3.50 billion on long-term education interventions. These transformative interventions include flagship initiatives like Nand Ghar (early childhood care at modernised Anganwadi centres), Shiksha Sambal (remedial education for rural students), Khushi (focused on health and nutritional wellbeing of students), Jeevan Tarang (inclusive education for children with special needs), Unchi Udaan (STEM education for girl students), promotion of higher education for rural girls, and support for company-run schools.“Our belief is that education is the strongest foundation for building empowered communities. Receiving the Bhamashah Awards year after year is a testament to the enduring impact of our initiatives and the partnerships we’ve nurtured with schools, educators, and families across Rajasthan. Hindustan Zinc has always stood by its communities and prioritised their needs, this award is a reflection of this unwavering commitment that we have for our people and the state.” said Arun Misra, CEO & Whole Time Director, Hindustan Zinc.Hindustan Zinc’s education programs reach over 2 lakh children annually, with measurable impact on school enrollment, retention—especially of adolescent girls—and learning outcomes in tribal and rural areas. The company’s targeted interventions align with Rajasthan’s recent educational progress:The Class 10 pass rate in the state surged from ~47% in 2007 to 93.6% in 2025, with girls consistently outperforming boys.Dropout rates, especially among girls, have declined significantly in regions where Hindustan Zinc operates.Rajasthan’s female literacy rate, which stood at 57.6% in 2017, has steadily increased to 65.8%, with many districts closing the gender gap in school attendance.Hindustan Zinc’s Shiksha Sambal program is a cornerstone of the company’s mission to improve access to quality education for underprivileged children in rural Rajasthan. Reinforcing this commitment, the company recently signed an MoU with the Department of Education, Government of Rajasthan, pledging an investment of ₹36 crore over the next five years to drive educational development across the state. Over the years, Hindustan Zinc has played a pivotal role in shaping Rajasthan’s educational landscape through impactful initiatives like Unchi Udaan, which mentors and supports students from low-income families aspiring to enter IITs, and Jeevan Tarang, which empowers children with hearing and speech disabilities.Hindustan Zinc’s efforts go beyond education. The company has been a catalyst for sustainable livelihoods by supporting rural women and farmers, expanding access to healthcare, promoting water conservation, and improving sanitation infrastructure. These initiatives have collectively impacted over 23 lakh lives across more than 2,300 villages across Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. Ranked among India’s top 10 socially responsible corporates, Hindustan Zinc remains dedicated to building a resilient and inclusive Rajasthan—one that thrives on innovation, empowerment, and environmental stewardship.