Hindustan Zinc has disclosed its production data for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, witnessing a mixed performance in mined and refined metal outputs but achieving a record high in silver production.
In the January-March quarter of 2024, mined metal production slightly decreased by 1% year-over-year to 299,000 tonnes but saw an 11% increase from the previous quarter. The company attributes this quarterly rise to a combination of improved mined metal grades and enhanced ore production across its mining operations. Conversely, saleable metal production experienced a marginal annual increase, maintaining a stable output year-over-year with 1,033,000 tonnes for FY24.
Refined metal production showcased notable achievements with the highest-ever quarterly output at 273,000 tonnes, marking a 1% increase year-over-year and a 6% rise sequentially. This was driven by better plant availability. Specifically, refined zinc production increased by 2% year-over-year to 220,000 tonnes and saw a 9% rise from the previous quarter. Refined lead production, however, declined both annually and sequentially.
Silver production stood out with a record annual output, reaching 24.0 million ounces for FY24, up 5% from the previous year. The quarterly production of silver was 6.1 million ounces, up 4% year-over-year, despite a slight decrease from the previous quarter.
Wind power generation for the quarter was 61 million units, marking an 11% increase sequentially but a 14% decrease year-over-year, influenced by variations in wind velocity and seasonal impacts.
Over the fiscal year, Hindustan Zinc achieved its best-ever mined metal production at 1,079,000 tonnes, a 2% increase from the previous year, propelled by improved mined metal grades. The company also recorded its highest annual production of refined metal, underscoring its operational efficiency and strategic focus. 
