Hindustan Zinc Ltd, a subsidiary of the Vedanta Group, announced a 2% year-on-year decrease in mined metal production for the third quarter of the current fiscal, reaching 265 kilotonnes (kt). This decline was mainly due to reduced ore production at the Agucha and SK mines, although improved mined metal grades and higher mill recovery partially offset the reduction. However, compared to the previous quarter, the company saw a 3% increase in mined metal production, driven by higher grades and increased output from the Agucha and Zawar mines.
Refined metal production for Q3 remained stable year-on-year at 259 kt, unchanged from the same period last year, but down by 1% sequentially, mainly due to a planned maintenance shutdown. Refined zinc production remained steady at 204 kt compared to the previous year, with a 3% increase from the previous quarter. Lead production, however, declined by 2% year-on-year and saw a 14% drop from the prior quarter, impacted by extended pyro plant operations in lead mode during base periods.
Saleable silver production stood at 5.2 million ounces, consistent with the lead output but affected by lower silver input from the SK mine due to a change in the mining sequence. For the nine months ending December 31, 2024, Hindustan Zinc recorded record mined metal production of 784 kt, reflecting improved grades and mill recovery.
Refined metal production also hit an all-time high of 783 kt, marking a 3% increase from the previous year. Refined zinc production reached 613 kt, up 3%, and lead production totaled 170 kt, up 4%. Saleable silver production for the nine-month period was 16.4 million ounces, a decrease of 8% from the previous year, mainly due to lower silver input from the SK mine.
Hindustan Zinc, a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited, is India’s largest and one of the world’s leading integrated producers of zinc, lead, and silver. Headquartered in Udaipur, Rajasthan, the company operates fully integrated mining and smelting facilities, leveraging cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.
With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Hindustan Zinc has achieved significant milestones in water conservation, renewable energy adoption, and circular economy initiatives. It serves industries such as construction, infrastructure, automotive, and consumer durables, providing high-quality metals essential for economic growth. Recognized globally for its ESG performance, Hindustan Zinc continues to drive innovation and excellence in the metals and mining sector.
