Bhawanipatna (Kalahandi/Odisha), April 26, 2025: Reaffirming its commitment to community health and well-being, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, observed World Malaria Day with an extensive awareness drive across the tribal-dominated regions of Kalahandi district in Odisha. The initiative aimed at enhancing understanding among vulnerable communities about malaria prevention and control, thereby supporting the national vision of a malaria-free India.
The campaign primarily focused on Nakrundi and Gunpur villages, along with other remote habitations in the district. These areas were chosen for their vulnerability to vector-borne diseases owing to climatic and environmental conditions. As part of the awareness activities, the Sijimali Bauxite team of Vedanta Aluminium organized engaging street plays, performed by seasoned local artists, which effectively communicated key messages on malaria prevention.
Drawing the participation of over 380 villagers, the performances creatively highlighted preventive measures such as eliminating stagnant water sources, maintaining cleanliness, and most importantly, the proper use of medicated mosquito nets that had earlier been distributed by Vedanta’s community health team. The interactive and culturally rooted performances ensured that the messages resonated deeply with the rural audience, encouraging behavioural change at the grassroots level.
Following the street plays, interactive discussions and community dialogues were organized, giving villagers an opportunity to raise questions and share their own experiences regarding malaria control. The participatory nature of the event helped reinforce critical information on symptoms, early diagnosis, and the importance of timely medical intervention.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Vedanta Aluminium, said, “We recognize that good health forms the foundation of thriving communities and sustainable growth. Our commitment extends beyond providing healthcare services, it lies in creating awareness, fostering preventive health behaviour, and empowering communities to take charge of their well-being. Through our health outreach programmes, we are building resilience among rural populations to fight preventable diseases like malaria.”
He further added, “Whether through malaria prevention, nutrition awareness, yoga camps, or cancer screening initiatives, our efforts are directed towards creating lasting health impact and nurturing communities that are healthier, stronger, and self-reliant.”
This initiative forms a part of Vedanta Aluminium’s larger healthcare mission, which reached over 45,000 beneficiaries last year through various health camps, the Swarna Prashan immunization initiative, and awareness programmes on hygiene, maternal health, and nutrition.
It is worth noting that Kalahandi district, once synonymous with poverty, deprivation, and a high burden of vector-borne diseases, has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. With consistent efforts from organizations like Vedanta Aluminium, awareness levels and access to healthcare have significantly improved.
What was once a malaria-endemic region with minimal medical outreach is now seeing positive health outcomes, a testament to how sustained corporate and community partnerships can drive meaningful change. By integrating health, education, and social awareness into its developmental framework, Vedanta Aluminium continues to build a healthier and more resilient Kalahandi.
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