Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has partnered with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to implement a Rs 1 crore rural development initiative focused on workforce skilling, water resource management, and agricultural diversification in Odisha’s Kalahandi district. The collaboration, formalised through an exchange of a sanction letter, marks a significant investment in building a skilled workforce and strengthening agricultural resilience in resource-rich but economically underserved regions.Under this partnership, the two organisations will undertake a series of interventions aimed at boosting employment opportunities and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability. The initiative will support the training of 60 rural youth under the ‘Food and Beverage Steward Course’ at Vedanta’s skills training centre in Lanjigarh, equipping them with industry-relevant skills that align with the region’s growing employment landscape. Already, 210 youth have been trained in the first phase of this project. In parallel, efforts will be directed toward strengthening agricultural infrastructure, including the creation of 275 water structures, including community ponds, farm ponds, check dams in the community, to enhance water security for farmers and the introduction of high-value crops such as turmeric, ginger, and marigold across 2380 acres of farmland, fostering the development of local micro-enterprises.The agreement was formalized between Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO – Alumina Business, Vedanta Limited, and Dr. Sudhanshu K K Mishra, Chief General Manager, NABARD Regional Office, Bhubaneswar, underscoring a shared commitment to sustainable rural development. By aligning with India’s national objectives of rural self-reliance and economic diversification, the collaboration reinforces Vedanta Aluminium’s commitment to leveraging industrial expertise for regional economic transformation.Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer, Vedanta Aluminium, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, and said, “At Vedanta Aluminium, we believe that sustainable development begins with empowering communities. Our partnership with NABARD is a step towards creating a self-reliant rural economy by equipping youth with industry-ready skills and introducing innovative agricultural practices.”Dr. Sudhanshu K K Mishra, Chief General Manager, NABARD, highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in rural development, “NABARD is committed to fostering sustainable rural development through innovative partnerships that enhance livelihoods and strengthen agricultural resilience. Our collaboration with Vedanta Aluminium is a testament to the power of industry-led initiatives in driving meaningful change. By combining our strengths, this program will create lasting economic opportunities for rural communities in Odisha, empowering farmers and youth with the resources and skills needed for a more prosperous future.”Vedanta Aluminium, a business of Vedanta Limited, is India's largest producer of aluminium, manufacturing more than half of India's aluminium i.e., 2.37 million tonnes in FY24. It is a leader in value-added aluminium products that find critical applications in core industries. Vedanta Aluminium ranks 2nd in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024 world rankings for the aluminium industry, a reflection of its leading sustainable development practices. With its world-class aluminium smelters, alumina refinery and power plants in India, the company fulfils its mission of spurring emerging applications of aluminium as the 'Metal of the Future' for a greener tomorrow.Image Source: indiawhispers