Hindustan Zinc secures licence to mine tungsten in Andhra Pradesh

Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) on Saturday announced that it has received a composite licence from the Andhra Pradesh government to explore and mine a tungsten block in Balepalyam village, Kanaganapalle mandal, in Sri Sathya Sai district. The move marks a significant step for the Vedanta Group company as it expands beyond its core portfolio of zinc, lead and silver into critical and high-value minerals essential for advanced manufacturing.

Tungsten is a high-value strategic metal widely used in defence, electronics, aerospace, cutting tools and other advanced industries. India currently depends heavily on imports for tungsten, making this project crucial for strengthening the country’s mineral security and reducing import dependence.

The composite licence granted to HZL is a two-stage concession that allows the company to explore the area and, if the mineral discovery is successful, proceed directly to mining under the same approval. HZL had earlier been declared the preferred bidder for the block through a competitive auction conducted by the Centre.

Calling the development a major milestone, HZL CEO Arun Misra said it reinforces the company’s commitment to expanding its mineral footprint and contributing to India’s self-reliance in critical and strategic minerals.

Hindustan Zinc is India’s largest integrated producer of zinc and one of the world’s top silver producers. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a 77% share of India’s primary zinc market, while steadily increasing its focus on strategic mineral exploration to support national manufacturing and defence needs.