Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals division of the Aditya Birla Group, has been awarded the Meenakshi Coal Mine in Odisha through a vesting order from the Ministry of Coal. This allocation follows the signing of the Coal Mine Development and Production Agreement (CMDPA) on November 22, 2024, marking a crucial step in Hindalco’s strategy to secure resources, enhance energy efficiency, and support sustainable development.
The Meenakshi coal mine in Odisha, a fully explored block, boasts a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 12 million tonnes annually and geological reserves of approximately 285.23 million tonnes. With a favorable coal-to-waste stripping ratio below 1, the G12-grade mine offers a cost-effective and sustainable energy source, enabling Hindalco to achieve self-reliance in coal production.
This allocation supports Hindalco’s strategy to cut operational costs and enhance energy independence. The coal extracted from Meenakshi will replace costlier auctioned and linked coal, which currently costs about 40% more, ensuring a steady supply to its smelters and cementing its position as one of the world’s most cost-efficient aluminium producers.
Beyond operational efficiencies, the mine is set to have a significant regional impact by bolstering India’s energy security, increasing domestic coal output, and fostering economic growth. The project is expected to generate approximately 16,000 direct and indirect jobs, improving livelihoods and driving community development in the region.
This achievement underscores Hindalco’s dedication to responsible mining, sustainable practices, and its vision of advancing India’s energy self-reliance and industrial development. Production from the Meenakshi mine is targeted to begin by CY2028, subject to obtaining regulatory approvals.
Hindalco Industries Limited, part of the Aditya Birla Group, is a $26 billion metals industry leader. The company is the world’s largest aluminium producer by revenue and the second-largest copper rod manufacturer outside China. Hindalco’s operations span the entire value chain, from bauxite mining and aluminium production to downstream products like foils and extrusions.
Alongside its subsidiary Novelis, Hindalco leads in flat-rolled products and aluminium recycling globally. In India, it is the largest copper producer, meeting over half the nation’s requirements. Hindalco’s footprint spans 52 manufacturing units across 10 countries, and it has been recognized as the most sustainable aluminium company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for five consecutive years.
