India’s first facility to produce nickel launched by HCL in Jharkhand

India’s first facility to produce nickel was launched by the Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) at its Indian Copper Complex (ICC) at Ghatshila in Jharkhand.
The new facility “Nickel, Copper and Acid Recovery Plant” will be first facility in India to produce nickel metal of London Metal Exchange (LME) grade from primary resource.
Key Facts

• Initially, the capacity of the plant is poised to be 50 tonnes per annum, given the current production rate from the Surda mines.
• However, the nickel output will be increased nearly eight times after the completion of mine expansion projects located at Ghatsila.
• The plant will utilize eco-friendly technology and help check pollution and also eliminate use of lead, reduce liquid effluents and cut down solid waste by 75%.
• It will also utilise less energy, provide a safe working environment and conserve natural resources, the statement added.
• Significance: The annual demand for pure nickel in India is around 45,000 MT and country’s domestic market is totally dependent on import. Thus it will help to curb import dependence.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2016