Bhubaneswar, Aug 23: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, is transforming agriculture in Odisha’s Kalahandi district through its flagship initiative, Project Sangam. The company has scaled up the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technique across 64.2 acres in Lanjigarh, resulting in a 25% increase in crop yields and a 30% reduction in input costs.

Once a drought-prone region, Kalahandi is witnessing a revival in agricultural productivity and farmer incomes. Over 60 farmers have adopted SRI, with yields rising from 18–20 quintals per acre to 22.5–25 quintals. Input costs have dropped from Rs10,000–12,000 to Rs7,000–9,000 per acre. The method also improves water efficiency by 35%, promotes organic practices, and strengthens soil health.

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Encouraged by the success, Vedanta is expanding the initiative to 210 acres during the current Kharif season, engaging over 120 farmers across 18 villages. Farmers report better crop stands, increased tillering, improved weed control using Mandua weeders, reduced seed usage, and stronger root systems.

Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO of Vedanta Alumina Business, said, “Agriculture is the lifeline of rural Odisha. Empowering farmers with sustainable techniques is key to long-term prosperity. Project Sangam’s success reflects how community-driven innovation can uplift livelihoods and conserve resources.”

Project Sangam is an integrated watershed and livelihood development program operating in 41 villages. It has created water-based assets that ensure year-round water availability for drinking and farming. The initiative currently irrigates over 3,500 acres and benefits more than 22,000 people annually