Vedanta Lanjigarh scales up System of Rice Intensification in Kalahandi under Project Sangam

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, AUGUST 23, 2025

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, is transforming traditional farming practices in Kalahandi through its flagship integrated watershed and livelihood development initiative –Project Sangam. At Lanjigarh, the company has introduced and scaled up the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technique, which is delivering remarkable results for local farmers.

The SRI method has boosted crop yields by 25%, reduced input costs by 30%, and significantly enhanced farmer incomes. Over 60 farmers have already adopted this technique across 64.2 acres of farmland in the region. Once a district synonymous with drought and famine, Kalahandi is now witnessing improved agricultural productivity and rural prosperity through Vedanta’s sustained interventions in agriculture and livelihoods.

The results speak for themselves: paddy yields have risen from 18–20 quintals per acre to 22.5–25 quintals per acre, while cultivation costs have dropped from ₹10,000–12,000 per acre to ₹7,000–9,000 per acre. The technique has also improved water-use efficiency by 35%, encouraged organic practices that minimize pest attacks, and enhanced soil health. Encouraged by these outcomes, Vedanta is now expanding the initiative to cover 210 acres in the ongoing Kharif season, engaging over 120 farmers across 18 villages.

Speaking on the initiative, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO – Vedanta Alumina Business, said: “Our vision extends beyond industrial growth. Agriculture is the backbone of rural Odisha, and empowering farmers with sustainable, modern practices is key to long-term prosperity. The success of SRI under Project Sangam demonstrates how community-driven innovation can increase productivity, conserve resources, and improve livelihoods. This aligns with our commitment to building a prosperous and self-reliant India.”

Farmers adopting the technique have reported uniform crop stands, higher tillering due to better spacing, improved weed control through Mandua weeders, reduced seed usage, and stronger root establishment. Notably, small and marginal farmers — who are often the most vulnerable — are showing greater willingness to adopt the method, recognising its potential for sustainable growth.

Vedanta Lanjigarh’s Project Sangam is an integrated watershed and livelihood programme designed to strengthen rural resilience through technology-enabled solutions. The project is creating water-based assets across 41 villages in Kalahandi’s Lanjigarh block, ensuring year-round water availability for both drinking and agriculture. By enhancing water storage capacity and groundwater recharge, the initiative is bringing irrigation to over 3,500 acres of farmland and directly benefiting more than 22,000 people annually.