The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
LANJIGARH (KALAHANDI), FEBRUARY 14, 2025
Marking a new milestone in agrarian development, Vedanta Lanjigarh’s flagship initiative, “Project Sangam,” is transforming the rural landscape of Kalahandi by promoting crop diversification and sustainable farming practices. In collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, the initiative has successfully introduced strawberry cultivation, offering local farmers an opportunity to reap the benefits of a high-value crop with strong market potential.
By integrating scientific farming techniques, “Project Sangam” is not only enhancing soil health but also equipping farmers with the knowledge and skills required to cultivate strawberries profitably. This initiative aligns with Vedanta’s broader vision of strengthening sustainable rural livelihoods through innovative agricultural interventions.
Expressing his delight at the initiative’s success, Bishnu Prasad Singh, Deputy Director (Horticulture), Kalahandi, said, “Due to the support of Vedanta Lanjigarh, strawberry cultivation has been a remarkable success, augmenting the economic development of farmers in the district. Vedanta’s significant interventions in agriculture and sustainable livelihoods have been truly commendable. I am confident that this partnership will continue setting a benchmark for similar community-driven livelihood projects.”
Reaffirming Vedanta’s commitment to rural development, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, CEO of Vedanta Alumina Business, said, “At Vedanta, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods and empowering communities through transformative initiatives like Project Sangam. By introducing modern agricultural practices, we enable farmers to enhance their productivity and socio-economic well-being. The success of strawberry cultivation is a testament to innovative farming methods, and we encourage more farmers to embrace these opportunities.”
Since its inception, “Project Sangam” has positively impacted over 1,200 community members in Kalahandi, spearheading several transformative agricultural initiatives. The project has facilitated trellis vegetable cultivation across 9.6 acres, established a 20-acre marigold cluster, and developed an 18.5-acre mango orchard.
Additionally, in line with its commitment to organic and regenerative agriculture, the initiative has introduced 36 NADEP composting structures, bringing 72 acres of land under organic farming. By developing water structures to enhance water recharge potential by 1.6 lakh cubic meters, the project ensures sustainable irrigation facilities year-round, further supporting farmers in the region.
By fostering agricultural innovation, skill development, and community-centric growth, “Project Sangam” aligns with Vedanta’s ESG philosophy, keeping community welfare at the core of its business decisions. Through sustainable initiatives, the company continues to empower communities, enhance skill development, and innovate for a greener business model, ultimately shaping a more prosperous and self-reliant rural landscape in Kalahandi.
