‘Sangam Watershed Project’ transforms Kalahandi’s farmlands, ensures year-round water security
BY RUPALI MAJUMDAR
Bhubaneswar, May 21: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, is making remarkable strides in water security and rural empowerment through its ‘Sangam Watershed Project; in Odisha’s Kalahandi district. The initiative, spanning 41 villages around Lanjigarh, is ensuring sustainable, year-round water availability for both agriculture and drinking purposes in a region once crippled by drought and famine.
Leveraging technology-driven solutions and a participatory approach, the project has already brought over 3,500 acres of farmland under assured irrigation, significantly enhancing farm productivity and improving groundwater recharge rates.
Expressing his gratitude, sugarcane farmer Krushna Chandra Mali from Balabhadrapur said, “Thanks to the Sangam Project, our sugarcane yield has surged by 25 per cent. With access to quality seeds, expert guidance, and fencing support, what once seemed impossible is now a reality.”
Vedanta Aluminium CEO Rajiv Kumar described the transformation as a testament to the power of partnership and innovation. “Through the Sangam Watershed Project and integrated rural initiatives, we’re not only securing water resources but also uplifting thousands of families with sustainable livelihoods. We remain committed to harnessing technology, community participation, and strategic alliances to drive inclusive growth in Kalahandi,” he added.
Notably, the project has enhanced water storage capacity and boosted recharge potential by 2.82 lakh cubic meters in the last financial year alone, directly benefiting over 2,500 people. Once fully operational, it is expected to positively impact more than 22,000 rural residents annually.
The project’s holistic model includes community and farm ponds, promotion of drip irrigation, trellis vegetable cultivation, strawberry farming, organic farming across 72 acres, and five Kisan Seva Kendras to support agricultural mechanization — collectively transforming the agrarian landscape of Kalahandi.
