Hindustan Zinc announced its production numbers for the first quarter ended June 30, 2026, reporting the highest-ever mined metal production for a first quarter for the fifth consecutive year. The company achieved mined metal output of 268 kt, representing a 1% increase compared to the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year. This performance was driven mainly by better grades, according to the production release filed with the exchanges.

Refined metal production reached 260 kt, a 4% increase from the 250 kt recorded in Q1FY26. This growth was supported by capacity unlocked through debottlenecking initiatives at Chanderiya and Dariba, as well as the 160 ktpa roaster at Debari. These gains offset the impact of planned maintenance activities undertaken during the quarter.

Production Highlights

The company's saleable silver production remained stable at 149 tonnes, consistent with the output in Q1FY26. This figure aligns with the lead production volumes for the period. Meanwhile, wind power generation stood at 133 million units, a decrease of 1% year-on-year, which the company attributed to wind velocity and seasonality impacts.

The following table summarises Hindustan Zinc's key production metrics for the quarter:

The refined zinc production included 3.3 kt from Hindustan Zinc Alloys, a 100% subsidiary of Hindustan Zinc. The filing was submitted by Aashhima V Khanna, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer, pursuant to Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.

Hindustan Zinc Limited has executed the deed for the grant of a composite licence for the Nawatola Laband Rare Earth Elements (REE) Block in Uttar Pradesh. The execution, dated June 27, 2026, was completed with the Government of Uttar Pradesh under the provisions of Schedule V of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. This development allows the company to undertake reconnaissance, prospecting, and exploration activities within the specified area.

The Nawatola Laband REE Block covers an area of 210.01 hectares and is located in the Sonbhadra District of Uttar Pradesh. The composite licence grants Hindustan Zinc the right to conduct operations in accordance with the terms and conditions of the licence and applicable statutory provisions.

Upon the successful completion of exploration and the fulfillment of terms applicable to the successful bidder under the MMDR Act, the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, and the Composite Licence, the company will become eligible for the grant of a Mining Lease. This transition is subject to compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

The move is part of the company's strategic expansion into critical minerals. The Nawatola Laband block represents a significant asset in the rare earth elements sector, which is crucial for various high-technology and clean energy applications.