Hindustan Zinc: 59 Years of Social Development and Global Recognition in Mining and Metals

Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and only integrated producer of zinc, lead, and silver, has completed 59 years of operations. Established in 1966 as a public sector enterprise, the company has significantly contributed to India’s journey toward self-reliance in mining and metals. Its integrated operations in Rajasthan include underground zinc-lead mines, smelters, and captive power plants, making it a cornerstone of India’s mining sector.

Starting with an 18,000-ton capacity smelter in Udaipur in 1966, Hindustan Zinc’s production rose to 200,000 tons per year before disinvestment. After its acquisition by Vedanta Group in 2002, production soared fourfold to over 1 million tons annually, setting global benchmarks for operational excellence.

A Catalyst for Rajasthan’s Socio-Economic Growth

Under Vedanta’s leadership, Hindustan Zinc has become synonymous with Rajasthan’s economic and social transformation. The company has strengthened its position as a leader in the metal and mining industry while significantly contributing to community development, agriculture, sports, and sustainable development in the state.

Operating five mechanized zinc-lead mines and three state-of-the-art smelters in Rajasthan, Hindustan Zinc manages one of the world’s largest integrated portfolios of zinc, lead, and silver. The world’s largest zinc-lead smelter is located in Chanderiya, Chittorgarh, while the Ramapura Agucha mine in Bhilwara is the world’s largest underground mine. The Sindesar Khurd mine in Rajsamand is the second-largest silver-producing mine globally. The company also boasts India’s first female underground mine rescue team.

To meet 70% of its energy needs sustainably, Hindustan Zinc has recently entered a power delivery agreement to secure 530 MW of renewable energy. The company employs over 25,000 people in its operations, further strengthening Rajasthan’s economy.

Transforming Communities and Empowering Livelihoods

Hindustan Zinc has reshaped Rajasthan’s development narrative, touching sectors beyond mining. Through innovative agricultural initiatives, it has transformed the state’s agricultural landscape, enabling farmers to cultivate fruits like guava and strawberries, previously unsuitable for the region. Supported by Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), farmers generated ₹5 crore in revenue. Similarly, its dairy-focused initiatives under the White Revolution processed over 4 lakh liters of milk, generating ₹2.5 crore in revenue.

The company has also invested over ₹1,700 crore in community development, positively impacting 20 lakh lives across 3,700 villages in six districts. These efforts have tackled issues like educational gaps and financial challenges while prioritizing education and skill development. For instance, the pass rate for Class 10 students in Rajasthan rose from 45% in 2007 to 93% in 2024, thanks to Hindustan Zinc’s educational initiatives.

Through the Zinc Football Academy, over 8,000 talented players have been trained since 2018.

Sustained Economic and Financial Contributions

Hindustan Zinc has contributed ₹40,000 crore in taxes to Rajasthan’s treasury, equating to ₹5 crore daily. Alongside fiscal contributions, the company has delivered strong financial returns to its shareholders. The stock price, which stood at ₹1.4 per share in 2004, increased to ₹444 per share in 2024, alongside cumulative dividends of ₹275.55 per share, marking a 500-fold total shareholder return.

A Vision for Sustainable Progress

Hindustan Zinc’s multi-faceted approach integrates economic growth with social responsibility, making Rajasthan a global hub for mining and metals. Its strategic vision ensures sustainable development while promoting sports, agriculture, and community welfare.

As Hindustan Zinc charts its path forward, Rajasthan is evolving into a model state for integrated growth, with its journey from mining to a diversified economy reflecting the company’s steadfast commitment to sustainability.

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