Dalmia Bharat Foundation helps & Supports Farmers

Taking a significant step towards the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, Dalmia Bharat Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of Dalmia Cement Ltd, the leading Indian cement major distributed Solar Light Insect Traps benefitting 500 farmers from seven village panchayats around Dalmiapuram, Tamil Nadu. This automatic solar powered device provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for pest control, effectively reducing crop damage, and increasing the yield and income of farmers. This device operates completely autonomously, utilizing solar energy for charging during the day and seamlessly transitions to operation in the evening after sunset.

The trap works by attracting insects and flies with UV light, causing them to fly around it, hit the flaps, and eventually fall into a tray filled with water. The training session and distribution of the solar light traps for the project were conducted under DBF’s Gram Parivartan Project. Additionally, 100 vermi compost bags and 100 Azollo production bags were distributed to the core village beneficiaries as part of organic farming practices.

As part of another initiative focused on empowering women and promoting sustainable livelihood, DBF conducted a 20-day Aari embroidery training for 20 marginalized women in Dalmiapuram. Aari embroidery, using a hooked needle, creates intricate designs, often enhanced with Zari Zardozi-a technique using metallic threads for added shimmer and shine. Post the completion of the training, the beneficiaries will have the opportunity to receive local orders, potentially earning a monthly income ranging from Rs. 3000 to 10000. In the FY22-23, the company provided similar training to 140 women beneficiaries from the surrounding villages.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. K Vinayagamurthi, Executive Director and Unit Head, Dalmiapuram said, “At Dalmia Bharat, we actively engage in farmer education programs, providing comprehensive training on sustainable agricultural practices to empower communities for a better livelihood. Dalmia Bharat Foundation spearheads community development with a focus on rural upliftment. This technology exemplifies eco-friendly practices by relying on the abundant renewable source of solar energy and minimizing the environmental impact. By combining education and innovative solutions, we strive to create a positive impact on farming communities, promoting resilience, biodiversity and holistic development for a brighter and more sustainable future for all."