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.

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