India's Mineral Production Sees Strong Growth in Q1 FY 2024-25

India's mineral production, including key minerals like iron ore and limestone, has seen significant growth in Q1 FY 2024-25, as reported by the Ministry of Mines. Iron ore production rose by 9.7%, while limestone production increased by 1.8%. Manganese and aluminium also saw notable increases.

India's Ministry of Mines reported a robust increase in the production of key minerals, such as iron ore and limestone, during the first quarter of FY 2024-25. Iron ore production surged to 79 million metric tons (MMT) from 72 MMT in the same period of the previous fiscal year, reflecting a 9.7% growth rate. Limestone production also saw a rise from 114 MMT to 116 MMT, marking a 1.8% increase.

Additionally, manganese ore production witnessed an 11% rise, climbing from 0.9 MMT in Q1 FY 2023-24 to 1.0 MMT in Q1 FY 2024-25. For the entire FY 2023-24, iron ore production reached 275 MMT and limestone production hit 450 MMT, together accounting for approximately 80% of the total mineral production by value under the Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession Rules (MCDR).

The non-ferrous metal sector also demonstrated positive growth. Primary aluminium production in the first quarter rose by 1.2%, increasing from 10.28 lakh tons (LT) to 10.43 LT compared to the previous year's same period. India's status as a leading global producer of these minerals underscores its critical role in the global market. The demand surge in key industrial sectors like steel, cement, energy, infrastructure, and automotive drives this growth, indicating strong economic activity and momentum in India's industrial landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)