Which Indian District is Known as the Copper City? All You Need to Know About Khetri, Rajasthan

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By Metals Minerals Publication Last updated May 23, 2025 0

India’s mineral wealth is spread across its vast geography, and among the numerous regions contributing to the nation’s mining economy, Khetri in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan stands out for its rich copper deposits. Known popularly as the “Copper City of India,” Khetri has earned this title due to its significant role in copper mining and production—a status it has held for over a century.

📍 Where is Khetri?

Khetri is located in the northeastern part of Rajasthan, nestled in the Aravalli mountain range. The region is part of the Jhunjhunu district, which is also famous for its cultural heritage, havelis, and rich Marwari traditions. However, it is Khetri’s mineral legacy that distinguishes it on the national map.

🏭 Why is Khetri Called the Copper City?

Khetri’s epithet as the “Copper City” is directly linked to the abundance of copper ore in the region, as well as the establishment of one of India’s oldest and most significant copper mining operations—Khetri Copper Complex (KCC). Operated by Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Mines, KCC has played a vital role in tapping the mineral wealth of the region since its inception in the 1960s.

Key Facts About Khetri’s Copper Mining:

Khetri Copper Complex includes:
- Mining operations at the Khetri and Kolihan mines.
- A copper smelting and refining plant.
- A sulphuric acid plant and a tailings disposal system.
The complex is involved in the extraction, processing, smelting, and refining of copper.
The ore mined here is processed into blister copper, which is then refined for various industrial uses.

🧾 Historical Background

Copper mining in the Khetri region dates back to ancient times. Archaeological studies and historical records suggest that copper was extracted here over 2,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest copper mining areas in India.

However, modern mining started during the British colonial era, and it was in the post-independence period that the government decided to systematically develop copper mining in the area. Hindustan Copper Limited was incorporated in 1967, and the Khetri Copper Complex began operations shortly thereafter.

🧑‍🏭 Economic and Social Impact

The presence of HCL’s mining and smelting operations has transformed Khetri into an industrial hub. Thousands of workers are employed in mining, smelting, and related services, providing a major source of livelihood for the local population.

The mining complex has also brought infrastructure development, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, as part of HCL’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

However, as with many mining towns, Khetri has also faced challenges such as environmental degradation, displacement of communities, and concerns over workers’ health and safety. Efforts are ongoing to balance industrial development with sustainable practices.

🌿 Environmental Concerns and Rehabilitation

Like other mineral-rich areas, Khetri has not been immune to environmental issues. The copper smelting process generates toxic by-products, including sulphur dioxide and slag, which have raised alarms among environmentalists.

To mitigate these effects, HCL has introduced several environmental protection measures:

Afforestation programs to restore greenery.
Effluent treatment plants to manage industrial waste.
Air pollution control systems in smelting units.

Continued public scrutiny and regulatory compliance are essential to ensure that mining does not compromise the ecological integrity of the region.

🧭 Future of Copper Mining in Khetri

With India’s growing demand for copper—fueled by the renewable energy sector, electric vehicles, and electronics—Khetri’s strategic importance is only increasing. Hindustan Copper Limited has announced modernization plans and expansion projects to boost output while adhering to environmental norms.

These include:

Upgradation of mining technology.
Expansion of ore production capacity.
Investments in green mining practices.

Khetri, the Copper City of India, represents the complex interplay of natural resource wealth, industrial development, and socio-economic change. It is a symbol of India’s historical and contemporary engagement with mining and metallurgy. As India pushes forward with its industrial ambitions, regions like Khetri will remain pivotal, provided they continue to evolve responsibly and sustainably.

Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a student of Indian industry, or a curious traveler, Khetri offers a unique insight into India’s mining legacy—and its promising future.