India’s largest iron ore producer and miner, NMDC, achieved a historic milestone by producing 53.15 MT of iron ore in FY26, surpassing the 50 MT annual production mark for the first time in the country’s mining history. In March 2026 alone, the company produced 5.35 MT and sold 5.90 MT of iron ore, marking significant growth of 51% and 40%, respectively, compared to the previous year. The fiscal year witnessed a total production growth of 21% year-on-year, with sales reaching 50.23 MT, a 13% increase, marking its highest volumes since inception.
The Ministry of Steel highlighted that NMDC’s achievement signifies the increasing strength of India’s mineral sector, with the company playing a crucial role in the nation’s iron ore supply. The exceptional performance was driven by NMDC’s major iron ore mines in Chhattisgarh and Karnataka, namely Kirandul, Bacheli, and Donimalai, which recorded their best-ever performance. The fiscal year also saw the inauguration of NMDC’s international office in Dubai, the successful operationalization of the first coal mine in Jharkhand, and the commissioning of Deposit 4 at Bailadila in Chhattisgarh.
As India progresses towards its $5 trillion economy target and solidifies its global presence, the demand for iron ore is expected to rise significantly. NMDC is strategically enhancing its capacities to meet this growing demand and support sustained economic growth. Amitava Mukherjee, CMD of NMDC, expressed confidence in the company’s expansion plans and resource development initiatives for FY27, aiming to advance towards the vision of empowering Viksit Bharat. NMDC’s high-grade iron ore continues to fuel the operations of leading steel producers in India, playing a vital role in infrastructure development, manufacturing growth, and the expanding steel sector. The company has set ambitious goals to achieve a production capacity of over 100 MT of iron ore by 2030 through new mining projects, capacity enhancements, and infrastructure development.
