Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) announced on Thursday the appointment of South West Mining Ltd (SWML) as the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) to oversee the reopening and expansion of the Rakha Copper Mines. In addition to revitalizing the Rakha Mines, SWML will establish a new underground mine at Chapri and set up a concentrator plant, according to an official statement from HCL.
Mining activities at Rakha Mines were halted in 2001 due to operational challenges, the company noted. The agreement was formalized during a ceremony in Ranchi, attended by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy and other senior officials.
The project, requiring an estimated investment of ₹2,700 crore, is expected to create approximately 10,000 direct and indirect job opportunities. The operation will span 20 years, with a provision for a 10-year extension. HCL is committed to sustainable and responsible mining, integrating advanced technologies and environmentally friendly practices into its processes.
The company is also aligned with India’s green energy transition, as copper plays a critical role in renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient infrastructure. By focusing on expansion and modernization, HCL continues to support the country’s industrial growth while upholding its responsibility to environmental stewardship and community welfare.
Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) is a prominent public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, and is the nation’s only vertically integrated copper producer. Established in 1967, HCL manages activities across the copper value chain, including mining, beneficiation, smelting, refining, and the production of various copper products.
The company operates mines and plants in states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. HCL plays a significant role in meeting India’s growing demand for copper, an essential metal for industries like electrical, construction, and transportation. With a strong emphasis on sustainable mining practices, resource efficiency, and exploration to expand reserves, HCL is a key player in India’s effort to achieve self-reliance in copper production and support the country’s infrastructure and industrial growth.
