Vedanta’s “Project Sangam” empowers Kalahandi farmers through strawberry cultivation

Lanjigarh (Odisha) [India], February 14: Marking a new milestone in the tribal-dominated Kalahandi district’s agrarian development through Vedanta Lanjigarh unit’s flagship “Project Sangam”, the company is also boosting up sustainable rural livelihoods through crop diversification and farming practices.

Thus, Vedanta’s “Project Sangam” has now successfully introduced strawberry cultivation so that the local farmers reap the lucrative benefits.

Implemented in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, this pioneering initiative is training and empowering several farmers to cultivate strawberries, a high-value crop with strong market potential. “Project Sangam” also aids soil health by expanding the range of crops cultivated in the region through scientific practices.

Delighted at the successful initiative, Mr. Bishnu Prasad Singh, Deputy Director (DD), Horticulture, Kalahandi, said, “Due to the support of Vedanta Lanjigarh, the  strawberry cultivation has been a remarkable success and augmenting economic development of farmers in the district.”

He added, “Vedanta’s significant interventions in agricultural initiatives fostering sustainable livelihoods have been truly commendable. I’m confident that this partnership will continue setting a benchmark for similar community-driven livelihood projects.”

Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, CEO, Vedanta Alumina Business, said, “At Vedanta, we’re committed to fostering sustainable livelihoods and empowering communities through transformative initiatives like Project Sangam. By introducing modern agricultural practices, we are enabling farmers to enhance their productivity and socio-economic well-being.”

“As the successful commencement of strawberry cultivation is a testament to the innovative farming methods, we encourage more farmers to embrace these opportunities”, quipped the CEO.

Notably, “Project Sangam” has positively impacted over 1,200 community members till date in Kalahandi. It has also led to the implementation of trellis vegetable cultivation over 9.6 acres, 20 acres of marigold cluster, 18.5 acres of mango orchard.

Promoting organic and regenerative agriculture, the project has also introduced 36 NADEP composting structures to bring 72 acres of land under organic farming. The project has also substantially enhanced water recharge potential by 1.6 lakh cubic meters through the development of water structures within the local communities ensuring sustainable irrigation facilities round the year.

By fostering agricultural innovation, skill development, and community-centric growth, “Project Sangam” directly aligns with Vedanta’s ESG philosophy keeping community welfare at the core of business decisions, empowering millions with enhanced skill-set, and innovating for a greener business model.

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