NMDC today marked the commencement of coal mining operations at the Tokisud North Coal Mine in Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand, formally entering the coal sector and achieving a major milestone in its strategic diversification journey. The inauguration of mining operations signifies NMDC’s expansion beyond iron ore and strengthens its operational footprint in eastern India.
The Tokisud North Coal Mine represents a critical step in NMDC’s long-term strategy to evolve into a diversified, future-ready mining company. With an established presence in iron ore mining, diamond mining and overseas gold projects, the addition of coal mining is expected to significantly augment domestic coal availability, support the power sector and contribute to India’s broader energy security objectives in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
NMDC’s diversification strategy aligns with the national priorities articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his address on August 15, 2025, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of mineral self-reliance, highlighting that critical minerals are central to the energy, industrial, defence and technology sectors. He noted that the National Critical Minerals Mission has been launched, with exploration campaigns underway at more than 1,200 locations, to strengthen India’s self-reliance in mineral resources.
Reinforcing this strategic direction, Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy has underlined the need for NMDC to move beyond a single-mineral focus. He has stated that NMDC must align its investments with national policy priorities by expanding into coal, critical minerals and other strategic resource domains, describing diversification as essential for strengthening India’s resource security and long-term economic resilience.
The Tokisud North Coal Mine also highlights NMDC’s proven capability in the development and operationalisation of large-scale greenfield mining projects. Leveraging its decades-long experience in responsible mining, the company has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, environmental stewardship and community engagement at the project site.
Beyond its contribution to the national energy landscape, the Tokisud North project is expected to play a significant role in inclusive regional development in Jharkhand. The mine is projected to generate employment, support infrastructure development and promote socio-economic growth in the surrounding areas, reinforcing NMDC’s role as a key driver of national development through strategic mineral diversification.
