Parliament Question: Domestic Copper Ore Production

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF MINES LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1728 ANSWERED ON 10.12.2025 DOMESTIC COPPER ORE PRODUCTION 1728 SHRI ANTO ANTONY:

Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:

(a) the total domestic copper ore production in the country during each of the last five years;

(b) whether there has been any decline in copper ore production in major mining states since 2018-19 and if so, the details thereof along with the names of States mostly affected;

(c) the key reasons behind the decline in domestic copper ore production during the said period;

(d) the details of the steps taken up by the Government to boost domestic copper production and reduce the country’s dependence on copper imports; and

(e) the details of technological advancements adopted or promoted to improve the efficiency of copper ore extraction and processing in the country? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF MINES AND COAL (SHRI G KISHAN REDDY)

(a) Total domestic copper ore production in the country during last 5 years:

Year 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 Ore Production 3.27 3.57 3.35 3.78 3.47 (Million Tonnes)

(b) & (c) In comparison to year 2018-19, there has been a decline in copper ore

production due to following reasons:  Ore production severely affected by Covid-19 pandemic during the years 2019- 20 and 2020-21. Delays in obtaining statutory clearances for re-opening of Surda, Rakha and Kendadih Mines in Jharkhand.

 Malanjkhand Mines in Madhya Pradesh was under transition from Open Cast to Underground mines during 2022-23.  Ore Production stopped in Kolihan Mines in Rajasthan due to major breakdown of winder in May, 2024. The production has restarted in April, 2025.

(d) & (e) Following steps have been taken to boost domestic copper production and

improve copper ore extraction and processing:  Various expansion projects of Hindustan Copper Limited, taken up to enhance copper ore production capacity from 4.4 million Tonnes to 12.2 million Tonnes per annum.

 Introduction of Exploration Licence (EL) regime permitting reconnaissance and prospecting operations for critical and deep-seated minerals, including copper.  Promoting exploration by Notified Private Exploration Agencies with funding from National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust.

 Auction of 7 copper blocks - 4 in Maharashtra, 2 in Rajasthan and 1 in Madhya Pradesh.  Adoption of State of art ‘Paste Fill’ technology to increase safety and production of copper ore. *****