Bhubaneswar: National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) has been conferred the Abheraj Baldota Environment Award 2025-26 in recognition of its environmental protection measures and sustainable mining practices at the Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines under its Mines & Refinery Complex (M&R Complex) in Koraput, Odisha.
The award was presented during the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) held on September 22, 2026, in New Delhi.
Pankaj Kumar Sharma, Director (Production), NALCO, received the award from Keshav Chandra, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Government of India. Dr. Veena Kumari Dermal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines, was also present at the event.
NALCO Recognised for Environmental Protection at Panchpatmali Mines
The Abheraj Baldota Environment Award recognises NALCO’s efforts towards environmental protection and sustainable practices in mining operations.
The recognition specifically covers the company’s Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines, which form part of NALCO’s Mines & Refinery Complex in Koraput, Odisha.
The key details of the recognition are:
- Award: Abheraj Baldota Environment Award 2025-26
- Organisation: National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO)
- Recognised operation: Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines
- Location: Koraput, Odisha
- Award presented at: FIMI’s 60th AGM
- Date: September 22, 2026
- Award presented by: Keshav Chandra, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Mines
- Received by: Pankaj Kumar Sharma, Director (Production), NALCO
Team members from the Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines were also present during the award ceremony.
Award Highlights NALCO’s Sustainable Mining Focus
The recognition underscores NALCO’s continued emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainable mining operations.
The company has been recognised for its efforts to incorporate environmental considerations into its mining activities while maintaining operational requirements.
The award also highlights the importance of sustainable practices in the mineral and mining sector, particularly as mining companies work towards balancing resource extraction with environmental responsibility.
Award Presented at FIMI’s 60th Annual General Meeting
The award ceremony was held during the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) in New Delhi.
The presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Mines at the event highlighted the significance of environmental sustainability within India’s mining sector.
NALCO’s Director (Production), Pankaj Kumar Sharma, received the award on behalf of the company, with members of the Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines team also attending the ceremony.
The recognition adds to NALCO’s focus on responsible mining and strengthening environmental practices across its operations.
NALCO’s Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines in Odisha
The Panchpatmali Bauxite Mines are part of NALCO’s Mines & Refinery Complex in Koraput district of Odisha.
The latest award recognises the environmental and sustainable practices associated with these mining operations and reinforces the company’s focus on responsible resource management.
The recognition reflects the broader emphasis on sustainable development within India’s mining and mineral sector.
About NALCO
National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) is a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. The company is engaged in the mining of bauxite and production of alumina and aluminium, with operations covering the mining, refining and aluminium production value chain.
Read also: NALCO Partners with EGA for DX+ Ultra Technology in 0.5 MTPA Angul Aluminium Smelter Expansion
