Home Press Release Vedanta’s Rice Crop Pilot In Ch’garh Leads To Increase In Yield

Vedanta’s Rice Crop Pilot In Ch’garh Leads To Increase In Yield

September 10, 2015

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AN initiative of oil and gas company Vedanta, through its group company BALCO, aimed at increasing the rice crop yield of farmers in Korba, Chhattisgarh, has benefitted 17 farmers who took part in the pilot demonstration. The farmers experienced a 41% increase in crop yield on average. The success of Project Jalgram’s Systematic Rice Intensification (SRI) technique and the support of the farmers involved also led to additional seed provision from the local government.

“BALCO has a philosophy of partnering with communities with a focus towards creation of sustainable assets to enhance livelihood. The ‘Jalgram’ project is one of the significant projects BALCO has undertaken which is a pioneering initiative in the region, for the adoption of high efficiency technology in the agricultural sector. The success of this project has gained support from the local government, and during our Golden Jubilee year we look forward to further social and meaningful partnerships with the government that will bring long term benefit for the new Chhattisgarh state,” said Ramesh Nair, CEO & Whole Time Director, BALCO.

By developing the water infrastructure of the four villages; the project gives local farmers the means to generate a self-sustaining income, through year-long availability of water and better crop management practices. Given the success at these villages, the SRI technique will be extended to other locations.

Project Jalgram was established in 2012, aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods by efficient water and crop management practices. Over Rs. 78.11 lakh has already been invested in the villages of Dondro, Rogbahri, Chuiya and Jambahar, in the district of Korba, Chhattisgarh where BALCO operates two aluminum smelters.

The project is a joint venture between:

Vedanta Resources’ subsidiary BALCO;
Action for Food Production, an India based NGO; and
NABARD, the government of India’s apex development bank.

BALCO originally identified the need for this project in Korba’s core villages, and provides financial backing. Action for Food Production works on the ground executing the project, and NABARD organizes training initiatives, including agricultural awareness and farmers training programmes. Cattle vaccination was also conducted in all four villages, protecting over 1,500 animals. So far, the provision of surface water to farmers throughout the year has led to a saving of over 2,775 cubic meters of water. Village Development Committees have been established in each area, which hold regular meetings. The committees were instrumental in identifying the places where water conservation structures could be built.

Specific outcomes of the Jalgram project include:

Fencing for 33 acres of land at Dondro, benefitting 28 farmers
Construction of three farm ponds and two wells, allowing for vegetable cultivation in the immediate area
Promotion of second crops through soil water conservation; crop yield has increased in the area thanks to irrigation facilities and agricultural support
Moisture retention has reduced local vulnerability to climate change
Promotion of Wheat, Gram, Mustard and vegetables for the first time in the area during Rabi season
Irrigation for 40 acres of land, benefitting 28 farmers in Dondro
Community ponds at Jambaharand Rogbahari benefitting over 80 families and allowing fish rearing.