Dalmia Bharat’s Project Annadata Transforms Lives of Over 5,000 Farmers In Odisha Through Sustainable Agriculture

Rajgangpur, November 14, 2024: Dalmia Cement Bharat Ltd.

(DCBL), a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Ltd. and a pioneer in sustainable practices within India’s cement industry, is making a transformative impact in rural Odisha through its sustainable farming initiative, Project Annadata. Launched in 2023 with an initial focus on 800 farmers, the project quickly expanded to reach over 5,000 farmers in 31 villages across Sundergarh district. Project Annadata provides rural farmers with high-quality paddy seeds, access to community-led grain banks, and repurposes waste paddy straw through a buyback programme as an Alternative Fuel Resource. This adaptable approach not only improves productivity and enhances income for farmers but also contributes to significant carbon emission reductions, helping to build both economic and environmental resilience. The initiative was also recently recognized as the "Best Sustainable Project of the Year 2023-24" at the 4th Sustainability Summit & Awards by UBS Forum.

In its first year, Project Annadata has made a significant impact on rural communities, collecting over 400 tons of straw from 1,000 families. This initiative has provided farmers with additional revenue, reduced air pollution by preventing straw burning, and repurposed the straw as eco-friendly fuel for Dalmia Cement’s operations. By distributing high-quality seeds, the project has also enabled farmers to produce 10 to 15 quintals of paddy per acre, boosting food security and enhancing their livelihoods. Farmers have experienced a notable financial uplift, adding an average of INR 5,300 per month to their earnings.

Reflecting on the initiative’s achievements, Shri Chetan Shrivastav, Executive Director of DCBL and Unit Head of Rajgangpur, stated, “Project Annadata represents Dalmia Bharat’s vision of sustainable growth - where economic progress and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Many farmers in this region struggle with low productivity, limited access to resources, and a lack of awareness on sustainable agricultural practices. The initiative not only strengthens their livelihoods but also contributes to the region’s food security and environmental resilience. We are extremely proud of what we have been able to achieve in one year and look forward to continuing to set new standards in responsible business practices.”

Through Project Annadata, Dalmia Bharat has effectively addressed key challenges in rural agriculture while improving farmer livelihoods. By aligning with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, the project contributes to global sustainability and serves as a transformative model for rural development in India.

About Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited: Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited (DCBL), a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited (BSE Code: 542216|NSE Symbol: DALBHARAT and listed in MSE), is a leading player in the cement manufacturing segment and has been in existence since 1939. Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited prides itself on having one of the lowest carbon footprints in the cement world globally. It is the first cement company to commit to RE100, EP100 & EV100 (first triple joiner) – showing real business leadership in the clean energy transition by taking a joined-up approach. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 45.6 MnT, Dalmia Cement is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing group in India by installed capacity. Spread across ten states and fifteen manufacturing units, the company is a category leader in super-specialist cement used for oil well, railway sleepers and airstrips and is the country’s largest producer of Portland Slag Cement (PSC). Visit us at http://www.dalmiacement.com.

Media Contact: corpcomm@dalmiabharat.com