TFP Bureau, Korba, January 5, 2025: Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a leading aluminium producer under Vedanta Aluminium, marked Kisan Diwas with a two-day Kisan Mela aimed at empowering farmers with sustainable agricultural practices. Held at the Vedanta Agriculture and Resource Centre and Bhatgaon village, the event saw participation from more than 600 farmers across 40 villages in Chhattisgarh.
The Mela, part of BALCO’s flagship agricultural initiative Mor Jal Mor Maati, showcased six interactive stalls, including two dedicated to the project itself. These stalls provided farmers with insights into integrated pest and nutrient management, crop cycles, disease prevention, and livestock development practices. Demonstrations of advanced farming techniques such as wadi management, grafting, seed dressing, and soil tilling were also conducted.
The event was organized in collaboration with District Agriculture, Horticulture, and Veterinary Departments, as well as Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khatgora. State institutions such as Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya and Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya added to the knowledge-sharing by hosting sessions on innovative farming methods. Advanced farming equipment and mechanisms, including a poultry hatchery, were also presented to encourage modernization in agriculture.
Recognition and Rewards for Progressive Farmers
During the event, progressive farmers were recognized for their innovative approaches and contributions to agriculture. They received advanced tools like the NTFP Lac Cultivation Spray Kit, aimed at motivating younger generations and enhancing agricultural productivity.
A Vision for Rural Prosperity
Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO & Director of BALCO, highlighted the significance of the Kisan Mela in fostering rural prosperity. “The Kisan Mela embodies BALCO’s vision of creating a resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. By equipping farmers with the right knowledge and resources, we aim to empower them for a brighter future and contribute to the nation’s growth,” he said.
Farmers like Mrs. Laxmin Bai, a progressive participant, expressed gratitude for the event. “The Kisan Mela provides practical insights that empower us to enhance our productivity. BALCO’s support motivates us to embrace modern farming techniques and secure a better future,” she shared.
Blending Learning with Tradition
The event also celebrated rural camaraderie with traditional games such as tug of war and archery, fostering unity and joy while blending recreation with education.
Mor Jal Mor Maati: A Catalyst for Change
BALCO’s *Mor Jal Mor Maati* initiative has been a transformative force in rural agriculture, impacting over 5,000 farmers and covering more than 2,200 acres of land across 40 villages. Jointly implemented with the BAIF Institute of Sustainable Livelihoods and Development, the program integrates traditional farming wisdom with modern techniques like the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), organic farming, and climate-resilient cropping.
Approximately 15% of farmers involved in the project have diversified into livelihood activities such as animal husbandry, horticulture, and non-timber forest produce. Livestock development and wadi management initiatives are also being scaled up to further enhance rural self-reliance.
With its focus on sustainable development and community empowerment, BALCO continues to set a benchmark in driving progress within India’s agricultural sector.
