NMDC Becomes First Indian Miner to Cross 50 Million Tonnes Iron Ore Output in FY26

National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) has achieved a landmark milestone in India’s mining sector by becoming the first company in the country to cross the 50 million tonnes annual iron ore production mark. The state-run mining major reported a record 53.15 million tonnes (MT) of iron ore production in FY26, underscoring its growing contribution to the steel and infrastructure ecosystem.

The strong performance comes at a time when demand for iron ore continues to remain robust, driven by rising steel production and accelerated infrastructure activity across India. NMDC also recorded total sales of 50.23 million tonnes during the financial year, marking the highest-ever volumes since the company’s inception.

A key driver behind this record-breaking performance was the strong output registered in March 2026. During the month alone, NMDC produced 5.35 MT of iron ore and posted sales of 5.90 MT, reflecting a sharp 51 per cent year-on-year increase in production and a 40 per cent rise in sales compared to the same period last year.

The milestone was supported by exceptional output from NMDC’s flagship mines, including Kirandul and Bacheli in Chhattisgarh and the Donimalai mine in Karnataka. All three mining complexes recorded their best-ever production levels, highlighting improved operational efficiency and stronger demand from domestic steelmakers.

The achievement further strengthens NMDC’s position as the backbone of India’s iron ore supply chain. With the country’s steel sector expanding rapidly and infrastructure investments gathering pace, the company is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting raw material requirements in the coming years.

Industry observers believe this record production level signals strong momentum for the mining sector and reflects India’s continued push towards industrial growth, steel capacity expansion, and large-scale infrastructure development.