Lanjigarh, Kalahandi, February 17, 2025: Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh, India’s leading producer of smelter-grade alumina and a subsidiary of Vedanta Aluminium, is fostering sustainable livelihoods through Project Sangam-a transformative farming initiative in Kalahandi. The company has now successfully introduced strawberry cultivation under the aegis of the project, benefiting local farmers with a lucrative crop-growing opportunity and marking a new milestone in the region’s agrarian development.
Implemented in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, this pioneering initiative is training and empowering several farmers to cultivate strawberries, offering them support in growing a high-value crop with strong market potential. The project also aids soil health by expanding the range of crops cultivated in the region. It comes as the latest iteration of the project’s aim, which is to foster rural livelihoods and create new income opportunities through a strong focus on crop diversification and scientific practices.
Speaking about the significance of the initiative, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO -Vedanta Alumina Business, said, “At Vedanta, we are 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. The successful commencement of strawberry cultivation is a testament to the potential of innovative farming methods, and we encourage more farmers to embrace these opportunities”.
Expressing his delight at the success of the initiative, Mr. Bishnu Prasad Singh, Dy. Director, Department of Horticulture, Kalahandi District said “Through the collaboration and support of Vedanta Lanjigarh, the initiation of strawberry cultivation has been a remarkable success. It is encouraging to witness the successful harvesting, augmenting economic development of farmers in Kalahandi District. Vedanta’s significant interventions in agricultural initiatives fostering sustainable livelihoods have been truly commendable. I am confident that this partnership will continue setting a benchmark for similar community-driven livelihood projects”
Project Sangam has positively impacted over 1,200 community members through increased exposure to diverse agricultural avenues. As part of the initiative, farmers in Kalahandi are embracing scientific and sustainable farming methods, significantly enhancing their productivity and income generation. The initiative has led to the implementation of trellis vegetable cultivation across 9.6 acres, established a 20-acre marigold cluster, and developed an 18.5-acre mango orchard, securing long-term returns for farmers. Additionally, to promote organic and regenerative agriculture, the project has introduced 36 NADEP composting structures will bring 72 acres of land under organic farming. Through this project, we have also substantially enhanced the water recharge potential by 1.6 lakh cubic meters through the development of water structures within the local communities. This initiative is a step towards 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 skillset, and innovating for a greener business model. The success of strawberry farming stands as a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and agricultural transformation, paving the way for future agripreneurs in the region.
