In alignment with National Technology Day, Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC), India’s sole and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, has reaffirmed its position at the forefront of industrial innovation. The company has recently introduced cutting-edge technologies across its operations, significantly transforming productivity, safety, and sustainability within the metals and manufacturing sector.
Among its latest initiatives is the deployment of tele-remote and guidance-enabled loaders at the Rampura Agucha mine in Rajasthan. These remotely operated underground vehicles, controlled from the surface during shift transitions, have increased the mine’s shaft hoisting capacity from 6,500 to 8,000 tonnes per day. This implementation, supported by the company’s proprietary optical fiber infrastructure, marks a significant step forward in operational productivity.
In a pioneering move within India’s metals industry, Hindustan Zinc has introduced smoke-hours drilling technology, allowing production drilling to continue during shift handovers. This advancement, currently operational at Rampura Agucha and Sindesar Khurd mines, has resulted in an average annual increase of 22,000 tonnes in metal concentrate output over the past three years.
Furthering its commitment to smart manufacturing, Hindustan Zinc has collaborated with Infinite Uptime to integrate a predictive maintenance system powered by artificial intelligence and sensor-based technology. With over 1,000 sensors installed across its facilities, the company has significantly reduced unplanned downtime by approximately 500 operational hours. Additionally, an AI-driven tool is now being used to optimize the use of consumables such as zinc dust, sodium sulphate, lime, and cement, ensuring consistent product quality and resource efficiency.
According to Arun Misra, Chief Executive Officer of Hindustan Zinc, “Technology remains central to our operations. We are focused on implementing advanced solutions that elevate our production capabilities, reduce environmental impact, and create a safer, more standardized work environment. With the adoption of AI, automation, and robotics, we are setting new benchmarks for the industry.”
Hindustan Zinc continues to expand its technological footprint through the adoption of AI-based surveillance systems across its facilities, reducing manual intervention by nearly 50% and strengthening compliance, safety, and operational control. Robotic systems have also been introduced in smelting operations to enhance precision and streamline metallurgical processes. The company plans to further enhance its underground mining capabilities through the introduction of LiDAR-enabled drone-based stope scanning, improving the accuracy of geological mapping and extraction planning.
A strong focus on innovation and collaboration with over 40 technology startups through Vedanta Spark — Vedanta’s global accelerator program — underscores the company’s strategic approach to digital transformation. These engagements support initiatives in productivity enhancement, cost efficiency, ESG performance, and workplace safety through the deployment of AI/ML, drone technology, computer vision, and extended reality tools.
Through internal programs like Innovation Cafés, Hindustan Zinc fosters a culture of innovation among its workforce while simultaneously supporting MSMEs within its ecosystem. These efforts have contributed to enhanced operational resilience and strengthened the company’s supply chain and production capabilities.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a subsidiary of Vedanta Group, is the global leader in integrated zinc production and ranks among the top five silver producers worldwide. The company commands approximately 77% of India’s primary zinc market and exports to over 40 countries. Recognized by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024 as the most sustainable company in the metals and mining sector for the second consecutive year, Hindustan Zinc has also introduced EcoZen — Asia’s first low-carbon zinc brand produced using renewable energy sources.
The company maintains a certified water-positive status (2.41x) and is actively working toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. Through its extensive CSR programs, Hindustan Zinc has positively impacted the lives of 2.3 million individuals, earning its place among India’s top 10 corporate contributors to social development. As an energy transition metals company, Hindustan Zinc plays a pivotal role in supplying the essential materials required for a sustainable global future.
