The Business Bytes
Jharsuguda, December 10, 2024 (TBB Bureau): Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to bolster sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation. The launch of Vedamrit Honey, a premium, 100% natural honey produced by the skilled bee farmers of Laikera under the Laikera Honeyfed Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to community welfare.
The launch event, held at the Panchayat Samiti Office in Laikera, witnessed the presence of dignitaries, government officials, and local stakeholders, celebrating the collective efforts behind this innovative venture. As part of the program, Vedanta Aluminium has equipped over 100 local farmers with modern beekeeping techniques, high-quality honeybee boxes, and bees, while offering extensive training in honey production. This initiative not only empowers farmers with a sustainable income source but also contributes to ecological balance and enhanced agricultural productivity.
Speaking about this initiative, Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer of Vedanta Aluminium, said, “Vedamrit Honey exemplifies our commitment to fostering resilient communities through sustainable livelihood projects. It reflects the dedication of Laikera’s farmers, whose hard work is shaping a brighter future for the region. This initiative strengthens biodiversity while creating economic opportunities, showcasing the potential of community-driven development.”
The program has already garnered praise from the community. Sanjulata Nayak, Secretary of the Laikera Honeyfed FPO, highlighted the broader impact of beekeeping, stating, “This activity not only ensures an additional income source for farmers but also enhances pollination, which is critical for agriculture. Vedanta’s unwavering support has set a benchmark for community-focused projects, and I hope this initiative inspires similar efforts statewide.”
For local bee farmer Harish Patel, the project has been transformative. “Earlier, finding stable income was a struggle. With Vedanta’s training and resources, I now have a reliable livelihood. The launch of Vedamrit Honey ensures that our hard work reaches customers who appreciate pure, natural products, allowing us to improve our lives and those of our families,” he shared.
This initiative reflects Vedanta Aluminium’s broader vision of integrating social welfare with environmental sustainability. Beyond beekeeping, the company’s social interventions benefit nearly 80 villages across Jharsuguda and neighbouring areas, touching over 300,000 lives annually. These efforts include empowering women, providing healthcare to 50,000 people, supporting education for over 13,000 students, and planting 1.5 lakh trees in partnership with local communities.
Vedanta Aluminium continues to set benchmarks in sustainable industrial practices, with its leadership in value-added aluminium production and recognition as a global sustainability leader in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023 rankings. With initiatives like Vedamrit Honey, the company underscores its commitment to shared prosperity and a greener future.
