By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM| A renewed push to revive mineral development in Sikkim took shape on 16 December 2025, when Sanjiv Kumar Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), met Prem Singh Tamang, Chief Minister of Sikkim, and Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, Minister of Mines & Geology, Government of Sikkim. Accompanied by senior officials, the HCL CMD held detailed discussions on the possible reopening of the Dikchu Copper Mine and the exploration of other mining and allied opportunities within the state.

The meeting reflected a shared intent to responsibly harness Sikkim’s mineral potential while aligning with sustainable development goals. The Dikchu Copper Mine, once an important asset in the region’s mining history, was discussed as a strategic opportunity for revival, subject to environmental safeguards, technological feasibility, and socio-economic considerations. The dialogue also touched upon the broader scope of collaboration between HCL and the Government of Sikkim in mineral exploration, capacity building, and value creation for local communities.

The state leadership underlined the importance of environmentally conscious mining practices and inclusive growth, ensuring that any future mining activity contributes to employment generation, infrastructure development, and regional prosperity. HCL, as India’s only vertically integrated copper producer in the public sector, reiterated its commitment to responsible mining, advanced exploration techniques, and adherence to statutory and environmental norms.

The engagement did not conclude with the Gangtok meeting. Continuing the momentum, Sanjiv Kumar Singh further discussed the matter with the Secretary (Mines), Government of Sikkim, during the Rashtriya Khanij Chintan Shivir 2026 held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This interaction provided a broader policy and strategic platform to deliberate on the Dikchu project and other potential mineral opportunities in Sikkim within the national mining framework.

The continued dialogue at the national conclave highlighted the importance of Centre–State collaboration in unlocking mineral resources while balancing economic development and ecological sensitivity. For HCL, the discussions marked a step towards expanding its operational footprint and contributing to regional development. For Sikkim, the proposed revival of the Dikchu Copper Mine represents a potential pathway to industrial growth, employment generation, and enhanced revenue, anchored firmly in sustainable and responsible mining practices.