Project Jalgram’s Systematic Rice Intensification (SRI) technique— an initiative of Vedanta’s group company, Bharat Aluminium Company ltd (BAlCO) benefitted 17 farmers who took part in the pilot demonstration in the district, a company Press release issued here on Tuesday stated. The farmers experienced on average, a 41 per cent increase in crop yield. The success of the SRI technique pilot project 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 and 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 and aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods by efficient water and crop management practices.
Over Rs78.11 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 organises 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.