Kutch Copper Becomes First Indian Producer with Copper Mark

On 11 November 2026, Kutch Copper Ltd (KCL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, became the first Indian producer to receive Veramark Assurance, formerly known as Copper Mark certification. KCL operates one of the world’s largest single-location copper smelters at Mundra, Gujarat.

Independent Review and Assurance

KCL received the assurance after an independent review against the Copper Mark Responsible Production Framework and Joint Due Diligence Standard. The recognition indicates alignment with international benchmarks and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production.

Dr Vinay Prakash, CEO of Adani Natural Resources and Managing Director of KCL, said the certification places the company among global producers adhering to internationally recognised standards.

Scope of Veramark Assurance

Veramark Assurance uses third-party audits to promote responsible practices across the copper, nickel and zinc value chains. Its system requires regular reassessments to monitor operational standards and support transparency, accountability and continuous improvement.

Important Facts for Exams

• Smelting versus refining: Industrial copper production separates smelting from refining: concentrates are smelted into copper-rich matte, converted to blister copper, then electrolytically refined into cathodes.
• OECD due-diligence sequence: The OECD minerals due-diligence model has five steps: establish management systems, assess risks, respond to risks, obtain independent audits and report annually.
• SDG 12 target structure: SDG 12 distinguishes resource efficiency (target 12.2), chemicals and waste management (12.4), and waste prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse (12.5).