Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman-Cum-Managing Director, (Additional Charge), NMDC.

NMDC, a Navratna public sector enterprise is set to double its production capacity to 100 million tonnes by 2030. The flagship project of this expansion plan is the 135-kilometer slurry pipeline from Bacheli to Nagarnar. Additionally, Kirandul's new screening plant II will enhance the company's processing capabilities.

By increasing the KK line's capacity from 28 MTPA to 40 MTPA, laying a 15 MTPA slurry pipeline, and constructing blending yards, the company is expanding rail transport. NMDC is also developing a 4 MTPA beneficiation plant in Bacheli and a 2 MTPA Pellet Plant at Nagarnar, with plans to expand the latter to 6 MTPA.

The venture will require a capital investment with over Rs 2,200 crore allocated for FY25. The company has integrated belt scales with SCADA and ERP systems as the company's digital transformation is integral to its growth strategy.

The company's expansion plan, along with supporting the government initiatives for self-reliance and reduced import dependency in mining and metallurgy, will also contribute in raising its domestic iron ore market share annually from 20 per cent to 25 per cent.

The company is preparing to start production at its 8MnT coking coal block by December 2025. Through its branch, Legacy India Iron Ore Limited, NMDC is pursuing overseas mining opportunities for crucial minerals, including lithium mining operations in Australia.

Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman-Cum-Managing Director, (Additional Charge) of NMDC, said, "Our roadmap is not just about increasing production; it's about doing so responsibly. We are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact while positively contributing to the communities we serve."