NMDC Ltd., India’s largest iron ore producer and a Navratna public sector company, plans to nearly double its output to 100 million tonnes by 2030. This ambitious goal will strengthen its infrastructure, boost operations, and elevate its global position, supporting India’s growing industrial landscape.
Strategic Growth and Infrastructure Development
Driven by rising domestic and global demand for iron ore, NMDC is focusing on strategic investments to expand capacity and improve its transport infrastructure. Key projects include advanced slurry pipelines, new pellet and beneficiation plants, and enhanced stockyard networks.
A key initiative is the 135-kilometer eco-friendly slurry pipeline from Bacheli to Nagarnar, designed to cut reliance on traditional transport methods. The newly established Screening Plant II at Kirandul will further boost processing capacity while maintaining quality standards.
To enhance rail transport, NMDC is upgrading the KK line from 28 MTPA to 40 MTPA, laying a 15 MTPA slurry pipeline, and building blending yards. The company is also constructing a 4 MTPA beneficiation plant in Bacheli and expanding the Nagarnar Pellet Plant from 2 MTPA to 6 MTPA. By blending low-grade ore with high-grade ore and utilizing tailings, NMDC is optimizing resources efficiently.
Technology and Sustainability at the Core
NMDC is implementing digital tools like the Fleet Management System (FMS) and the Mine Transport Surveillance System (MTSS) across various mines to improve efficiency. Additionally, a Rapid Wagon Loading System is in place at Kirandul to streamline operations.
Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD of NMDC, emphasized that the company’s growth plan from 45 MnT to 100 MnT by 2030 focuses on sustainability and innovation. “Our expansion isn’t just about increasing production; it’s about doing so responsibly while reducing our environmental footprint and supporting the communities we work with,” he stated.
The expansion plan comes with significant capital investment, with over ₹2,200 crores set for FY25, primarily targeting the slurry pipeline and processing plants to boost efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Digital Transformation Drives Growth
NMDC’s digital initiatives, such as integrating belt scales with SCADA and ERP systems, enhance operational efficiency. The SAP S/4 HANA-based ERP system, launched in 2021, unifies key operations across production, sales, and HR. Other digital advancements include an Online Vigilance Portal, Customer Portal, Supplier Relationship Management, and automated data collection systems.
Supporting National Goals
NMDC’s growth aligns with India’s national priorities in steel and mining, supporting self-reliance and reducing import dependence. By increasing production from 45 MnT in FY24 to 50 MnT in FY25, NMDC aims to achieve its target of 100 MnT by 2030-31, raising its market share in India’s iron ore sector from 20% to 25%.
Future Vision and Expansion
Looking forward, NMDC plans to start production at its 8 MnT coking coal block by December 2025, aiming to reduce India’s reliance on imports. The company is also exploring overseas mining opportunities for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
NMDC’s commitment to sustainability extends to environmental projects, including a 10.5 MW wind power project and large-scale afforestation efforts. With a focus on customer needs, NMDC is also exploring new mining opportunities for iron ore, bauxite, manganese, diamonds, and gold, with operations planned beyond FY 2030. NMDC’s vision for 2030, combining innovation, sustainability, and growth, is poised to reshape the future of Indian mining while driving significant economic progress.
