Bhubaneswar : Hindalco Industries Limited, an Aditya Birla Group company, has
recently launched Project Basudha in 16 villages of Hirakud in Sambalpurdistrict
for bringing a transformation in their livelihoods. This is a comprehensive rural
development program which focuses on sustainable agriculture, livestock
promotion and income generation of the farmers. Implemented in collaboration
with the BAIF Institute for Sustainable Livelihoods and Development (BISLD), the
project is already making significant strides toward improving the lives of
farmers across Sambalpur district.
Emphasizing the company’s commitment to inclusive community growth, Mr.
Debasish Malik, Unit Head of Hindalco Hirakud Complex, said: “We are not only
working in areas like health, education, and rural infrastructure, but we are also
deeply invested in agricultural development. Our goal is to ensure the
sustainable and holistic progress of the community.This project, rooted in a holistic development approach, seeks to uplift farmers by promoting improved agricultural practices, crop diversification, and scientific livestock management, while ensuring access to government schemes and strengthening community participation,” adds Mr Malik.Key highlights of the project include the promotion of modern and sustainable farming practices such as Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM); training and exposure visits in collaboration with
institutions like Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), OUAT (Odisha University for
Agriculture & Technology) Chiplima, and the Fisheries Department; successful
outreach to over 400 farmers, with a target of 1,000 within the next three years;
and awareness programs on crop insurance conducted in association with the
State Bank of India, with more than 60 farmers already registered.
In the livestock sector, artificial insemination and breed improvement are being
facilitated through Livestock Development Centers managed by self-employed
youth, with over 300 livestock and 60 households targeted. A model dairy farm
featuring high-yielding cows is being set up to demonstrate scientific dairy
management. Additional initiatives include backyard poultry units for 50
households, a 1,500-bird commercial poultry unit for income generation, and a
goat development program benefiting 37 households through a revolving
model. Fodder cultivation using high-yielding varieties like Azolla, Sweet Corn, and Hybrid Napier is already adopted by 20 farmers, enhancing dairy
profitability.Off-farm livelihood options are also being promoted, including
mushroom cultivation, with 100 families being trained and two commercial units
already operational through SHG partnerships.
Farmer Mr. Niranjan Sahu from Larpank village shared how the initiative has
transformed his livelihood. “After Hindalco’s intervention, our income has
increased. They are providing good quality seeds and plants that are growing
beautifully. As a result, our vegetable production has gone up, leading to higher
earnings,” he said.
Supporting this, Ms. Mousami Serpeta, Assistant Horticulture Officer of
Sambalpur, highlighted the broader impact on the environment and rural
economy. “With Hindalco’s support, crop diversification is being promoted,
which helps in preserving soil fertility. The encouragement to grow cash crops is
also providing farmers with immediate and additional income,” she noted.