National Insight

Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], May 21: Leveraging technology-backed initiatives and a participatory approach, India’s largest aluminium producer Vedanta’s “Sangam Watershed Project” is creating sustainable water-based assets across 41 villages around Lanjigarh in Kalahandi district along with ensuring year-round water availability for both drinking and agricultural purposes.

Thus, Vedanta is making significant strides in ensuring water security in a region that was previously plagued by drought and famine.

In his reactions, Balabhadrapur-based sugarcane farmer Krushna Chandra Mali said, “Grateful to the Sangam Project and Vedanta’s support. Yield rate of our sugarcane has increased by 25%, that is a milestone we had once dreamt, but was out of our reach. With access to quality seeds, expert training and support for fencing, our efforts are finally bearing fruit.”

On such a successful initiative, Vedanta Aluminium Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajiv Kumar commented, “The transformation we are witnessing in Kalahandi is a testament to the power of partnership and innovation. Through the Sangam Watershed Project and our integrated development initiatives, we have not only enhanced water security and agricultural productivity, but have also empowered thousands of rural families with sustainable livelihoods.”

“We remain committed to leveraging technology, community participation along with strategic alliances to drive inclusive growth and long-term prosperity for the people of Kalahandi,” averred the CEO.

Notably, Vedanta Aluminium’s Sangam Watershed Project is irrigating over 3,500 acres of cultivable land, boosting water storage capacity and groundwater recharge rates. Once fully implemented, the initiative will directly benefit more than 22,000 rural people annually. In the last financial year alone, more than 2,500 individuals directly benefited from the development of community and farm ponds which collectively enhanced the recharge potential by 2.82 lakh cubic meters.

This project has significantly improved farm productivity in Balabhadrapur village. It has been possible through a holistic approach that includes water security, access to high-quality seeds and fertilizers, crop fencing, expert-led training, promotion of smart farming practices like drip irrigation, trellis vegetable cultivation, and strawberry farming. The project also supports organic farming across 72 acres through NADEP composting and has set up five Kisan Seva Kendras to advance agricultural mechanization.

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