Lease singed for 20 Year for Rakha Copper Mines between Hindustan Copper Limited’s (HCL) and Government of Jharkhand on 19th September 2025, ended a 25-year wait for thousands of families affected by its closure. The mine, which was shut in 2001 following a steep fall in copper prices, left 701 workers jobless and pushed the local economy into decline.
Also Read: Hindustan Copper and Jharkhand Government Signed 20-Year Lease for Rakha Copper Mine
Production Plans and Employment Assurance
Addressing the reopening ceremony, HCL Executive Director S.S. Sethi announced that the mine would initially produce 1.5 million tonnes of copper annually, with plans to raise output to 3 million tonnes in later phases. He also assured that the pending arrears of former employees would be paid after the court verdict and said dependents of ex-workers would get fair consideration for jobs based on skill and eligibility. “Water drainage work is ongoing and will take about one and a half years to complete before other closed mines are brought back to production,” he added.
Also Read: Surda Panchayat Struggled for Basic Amenities Decades After Copper Mine Closure
Health and Development Initiatives
On the same occasion, outsourcing partner South West Mining Limited introduced a mobile healthcare unit to serve seven surrounding villages, including Ichda, Rakha Copper, Matigoda, and Ruaam. The van is equipped with doctors and basic diagnostic facilities to provide free check-ups and treatment. Project Head Malay Daripa said the company will invest about Rs. 3,500 crores in the region, prioritising education, healthcare, and job creation.
Also Read: Rakha Copper Mines Received Environmental Clearance to Resume Operations
Local Response and Future Prospects
The reopening has brought relief and hope to the local population, who endured two decades of unemployment and out-migration. Villagers and panchayat representatives attended the event expressed optimism that jobs will return, infrastructure will improve, and young people will no longer be forced to migrate for work. Senior HCL officials including Deepak Srivastava (GM-Projects), Kamlesh Kumar (HR), and Saket Sinha (Mechanical), along with SWML’s leadership team, attended the event.
Also Read: Hindustan Copper to Reopen Rakha and Kendadih Mines in Jharkhand, 10,000 Jobs Expected
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