On June 22, Hindustan Zinc signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advantek Associates LLP and Aero Eagle Automobiles Private Limited to explore the adoption of green hydrogen and alternative clean energy solutions across its operations. According to the company, "Through this MoU, Hindustan Zinc is set to pioneer the use of hydrogen fuel for underground mining applications, positioning it to become the only company to deploy this technology in such environments." The collaboration aims to evaluate innovative technologies that can support the transition towards low-carbon and future-ready mining operations, aligned with the company's commitment to become Net Zero by 2050 or sooner. This development complements the company's existing technology investments in automation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and intelligent mining systems announced at its 60th AGM.
The company has executed the deed for grant of composite licence (CL) under the provisions of Schedule V of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, with the government of Uttar Pradesh in respect of the Nawatola Laband Rare Earth Elements (REE) Block, Uttar Pradesh. As reported by Hindustan Zinc, the Nawatola Laband REE Block, having an area of 210.01 hectares, is located in Sonbhadra District, Uttar Pradesh. The execution of the composite licence entitles the company to undertake reconnaissance and exploration activities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the licence and applicable statutory provisions. Upon successful completion of exploration and fulfillment of terms and conditions applicable to the successful bidder under the MMDR Act and Composite Licence, the company shall be eligible for grant of a Mining Lease in accordance with applicable law.
The company has demonstrated significant progress in electric-powered equipment deployment across its operations. Last week, Hindustan Zinc deployed India's first 250 mt capacity electric crane at Zinc Smelter Debari in Rajasthan. Earlier this year, the company also launched four electric loaders at the Rampura Agucha Mine, expanding the footprint of electric-powered equipment across operations. These initiatives support the company's strategy to build future-ready, low-carbon and technology-led mining operations, positioning it as a pioneer in sustainable mining practices while maintaining its focus on becoming a Net Zero company by 2050 or sooner.
According to latest reports, Hindustan Zinc reported a nearly 20% rise in revenue from operations to ₹40,844 crore in FY26, while profit rose 34% to ₹13,832 crore. The company is executing a ₹40,000-45,000 crore expansion programme to double annual metal production to 2 million tonnes. Misra confirmed that the company has the financial strength to fund both capacity expansion and entry into new minerals while maintaining shareholder returns. Vedanta Ltd owns a controlling 60.71% stake in Hindustan Zinc, while the Centre holds 27.92%, and public shareholders account for the remaining 11.37%. During the AGM, shareholders questioned management about the benefits of rare-earth diversification and urged the company to consider issuing bonus shares to mark its 60th AGM.
According to reports from Business Standard, Vedanta group firm Hindustan Zinc Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar announced that technology will be crucial to the company's next phase of growth at the company's 60th Annual General Meeting. The company is positioning itself for the next phase of the global energy transition by expanding beyond zinc and foraying into critical minerals, downstream manufacturing and technology-led mining. CEO Arun Misra confirmed at the AGM that the company plans to add at least three new metals to its portfolio over the next five years, marking a significant diversification from its current focus on zinc, lead, silver and cadmium. As the world's largest integrated zinc producer and one of the top ten silver producers globally, Hindustan Zinc continues to strengthen its position through strategic partnerships, technology adoption, and sustainable mining initiatives while maintaining its commitment to becoming a comprehensive energy transition company.
