India’s Mineral and Metal Output Grows Steadily in FY26; Refined Copper Production Surges 43.5%
By Shishta Dutta | Updated at: Oct 27, 2025 12:00 PM IST
New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — India’s mineral and non-ferrous metal sectors have kicked off FY 2025–26 with a positive growth trajectory, according to data released by the Ministry of Mines.
Building on the record production levels of FY 2024–25, key minerals such as iron ore, limestone, bauxite, and zinc concentrate, along with non-ferrous metals like aluminium and copper, showed continued momentum during the April–May 2025 period.
Key Mineral Production Performance (April–May FY26)
India’s mineral production saw steady growth in the first two months of FY26.
- Iron ore output rose by 0.6% year-on-year to 53.0 million metric tonnes (MMT) from 52.7 MMT in April–May FY25.
- Manganese ore production increased by 1.4%, reaching 0.70 MMT compared to 0.69 MMT last year.
- Bauxite output improved by 0.9%, rising to 4.73 MMT from 4.69 MMT.
- Zinc concentrate production grew by 3.7% year-on-year to 0.28 MMT, up from 0.27 MMT in the same period last year.
- Limestone output rose by 1.6%, standing at 81.40 MMT versus 80.10 MMT in April–May FY25.
| Mineral | FY25 (Apr–May) | FY26 (Apr–May) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iron Ore | 52.7 MMT | 53.0 MMT | +0.6% |
| Manganese Ore | 0.69 MMT | 0.70 MMT | +1.4% |
| Bauxite | 4.69 MMT | 4.73 MMT | +0.9% |
| Zinc Concentrate | 0.27 MMT | 0.28 MMT | +3.7% |
| Limestone | 80.10 MMT | 81.40 MMT | +1.6% |
The data indicates continued momentum in India’s mining sector at the start of FY26. Additionally, the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for the mining and quarrying sector reflected notable monthly gains in April 2025:
- Zinc Concentrate: +5.8% YoY to 0.14 MMT
- Limestone: +1.2% YoY to 40.1 MMT
- Bauxite: +13.6% YoY to 2.13 MMT
Non-Ferrous Metals See Strong Expansion
The non-ferrous segment, particularly aluminium and copper, recorded significant upticks during the same period.
| Metal | FY25 (Apr–May) | FY26 (Apr–May) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Aluminium | 6.98 LT | 7.07 LT | +1.3% |
| Refined Copper | 0.69 LT | 0.99 LT | +43.5% |
The sharp jump in refined copper output suggests a rebound in smelting capacity utilization and higher end-user demand across the energy and construction sectors. Aluminium production growth also aligns with increased activity across core sectors such as power, transport, and manufacturing.
India’s Global Rank and Demand Outlook
India retains its global leadership position across several mineral categories:
- 2nd largest producer of aluminium
- Among top 10 producers of refined copper
- 3rd largest iron ore producer
Iron ore, which accounts for over 70% of the total MCDR (Mineral Conservation and Development Rules) mineral production by value, remains a strong indicator of steel sector demand. The rising output of key minerals supports demand in downstream sectors, including steel, energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive, and machinery.
Outlook
The production momentum across both mineral and metal segments in early FY26 is a strong signal of India’s continued industrial growth. With global and domestic demand drivers firmly in place, particularly in the energy transition and infrastructure expansion, the sector is likely to remain a key pillar in the country’s economic growth.
About the Ministry of Mines
The Ministry oversees mineral exploration and development in India, including non-ferrous metals. It facilitates growth via sustainable mining policies and coordination with stakeholders across states and industry.
REF: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2141133
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