Udaipur, August 29, 2025: Hindustan Zinc Limited, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, announced that its sports development initiatives have engaged nearly 30,000 individuals across India through football, athletics, marathons, kabaddi, volleyball and other grassroots programs.
A key highlight is Zinc Football, a fully residential academy at Zawar in Rajasthan, which has gained recognition as one of India’s leading grassroots football institutions. Accredited with a 3-star rating by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) and awarded ‘Sports Academy of the Year’ at the Sport India Awards 2024, the academy has nurtured young talent, including players like Mohammad Kaif and Sahil Poonia, who went on to represent India. Earlier this year, Hindustan Zinc, in partnership with AIFF, launched India’s first residential Zinc Football Girls Academy with an inaugural batch of 20 under-15 players.
Extending its focus on wider community participation, the company also hosted the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon in Udaipur, which brought together more than 5,000 runners in its inaugural edition. Described as ‘India’s Most Beautiful Marathon,’ the event included the “Race with Champions” for specially-abled children and supported the #RunForZeroHunger campaign by Nand Ghar. Its second edition is scheduled for 21 September 2025.
“At Hindustan Zinc, we believe sport has the power to transform both individuals and communities,” said Arun Misra, CEO & Whole-time Director, Hindustan Zinc Limited. “From establishing India’s first-ever residential girls Zinc Football Academy to hosting the country’s most beautiful marathon in Zinc City – Udaipur, we are creating platforms that inspire confidence, discipline, and opportunity. These initiatives go beyond nurturing athletes – they foster healthier, more inclusive communities and contribute to India’s sporting and social progress.”
Beyond flagship initiatives, Hindustan Zinc continues to support grassroots sports including cricket, kabaddi, handball, and volleyball, benefiting more than 12,000 rural youth in FY25. Its long-standing association with grassroots sports dates back to 1976, when the company began hosting national football tournaments at Zawar Stadium.
Hindustan Zinc’s social impact work extends beyond sports, with initiatives spanning education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods. The company reports reaching more than 23 lakh people in over 2,300 villages, alongside its environmental programs in biodiversity conservation, plantations, and water stewardship.