Hindustan Zinc is undergoing a significant transformation, as articulated by Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar, who stated the company is moving from its traditional identity as a zinc and silver producer to a broader focus on critical minerals. This strategic shift is crucial for India, which aims to reduce its dependence on imports of essential minerals. In her letter to shareholders, Hebbar noted that Hindustan Zinc has achieved its highest-ever mined metal production of 1,114 kilotonnes (kt) in FY25-26, driven by improved ore grades and operational efficiencies. The refined metal output also reached 1,048 kt, with zinc production hitting a record 851 kt. Furthermore, the company has successfully scaled its silver production to 627 tonnes, marking a significant milestone in its portfolio. This growth is complemented by a disciplined approach to production costs, ensuring competitiveness in the global market. Since its disinvestment in 2002, Hindustan Zinc has delivered over 1400X total shareholder returns, with a compounded annual growth rate of approximately 33%. The company’s entry into the Nifty 100 and Nifty Next 50 indices underscores its robust performance and scale. Hebbar emphasized that India's journey towards self-sufficiency in zinc serves as a model for future growth in a mineral-intensive economy.