Hindustan Copper has joined hands with JSW Group’s South West Mining Ltd (SWML) to restart copper mining in Jharkhand. SWML won the contract in January through a competitive bidding process and will develop and operate the Rakha and Chapri mines. The deal is based on a revenue-sharing model and will last for 20 years, with the option to extend for another 10 years.
Copper is in high demand for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and telecommunications, and this project will help India produce more copper locally instead of relying on imports. Hindustan Copper’s Chairman and Managing Director, Sanjiv Kumar Singh, said the Rakha mine is expected to produce up to three million tonnes of ore per year and could start operations by late 2026 or early 2027. SWML will handle all development and operations, while Hindustan Copper will provide technical support and earn a share of the revenue.
Singh, who recently became CMD, has nearly four decades of experience in mining. Under his leadership, Hindustan Copper aims to boost India’s copper production and support the country’s industries. Restarting these mines will not only help the company grow but also strengthen India’s economy by reducing the need to import copper.
