Lanjigarh, Kalahari(Odisha): Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh, India’s premier producer of metallurgical grade alumina, has partnered with the Backyard Poultry Farming Project, an initiative by the government of Odisha to supplement the livelihood of local communities residing in the company’s peripheral villages.
Under the government run project, nearly 350 beneficiaries, selected by the Odisha Primitive Vulnerable Tribal Groups Empowerment and Livelihood Project (OPELIP) through the implementing agency Janasahajya, had received around 3500 chicks, 350 sheds, etc. However, lack of technical knowledge and adequate fodder had resulted in high mortality rate of chicks, and many households incurring losses. To address this, Vedanta Lanjigarh joined hands with Janasahajya. In association with Village Development Association and Kutia Kandh Development Authority (KKDA), Vedanta is providing high quality fodder to each household for their poultry. To strengthen micro-level implementation of the project, the company is providing technical support and regularly monitoring the poultry’s health status.
Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh CEO Rakesh Mohan said, “We have always strived to create and support sustainable livelihood opportunities in the regions where we operate, with a focus on inclusive growth. A significant endeavor in that direction is aiding last mile delivery and proper implementation of various government schemes on ground. Through the state government’s Backyard Poultry Farming Project, rural families in our periphery are able to supplement their household income and we are happy to assist in that endeavor and bring about positive results. Entering the economic revival phase after going through a challenging situation, Vedanta stands committed to supporting livelihood and catalyzing sustainable growth of the communities in its periphery, while contributing to the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
Recognizing Vedanta’s efforts, Dhanu Majhi from Kutendeli in Batelima Gram Panchayat, who is among the many beneficiaries of the project, said, “We are grateful to Vedanta for its efforts to augment and support the livelihoods of communities residing in and around Lanjigarh. The knowledge and support provided by the company has been crucial in helping us develop thriving poultry farms in our homesteads. We expect positive returns from the program and look forward to continuing this activity for added income.”.
Vedanta is the largest producer of aluminium in India and remains the premier manufacturer of metallurgical grade alumina. The company operates a 2 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) capacity alumina refinery in Lanjigarh (Kalahandi district, Odisha), India since 2007 and an associated 90 MW captive power plant.
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