BALCO supports farmers to grow crops beneficial to health

Central Chronicle News
Balconagar, Nov 16: Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO), India’s iconic aluminium producer, is supporting the regional farmers to grow nutrient rich Black rice, under the community development project of ‘Mor Jal Mor Maati’. Black rice has many health benefits and is very beneficial for different medical ailments including diabetes and is more profitable to the farmers than the traditional white rice. The cultivation of Black rice was initiated in the year 2020 in the village of Dondro and nearby region on a pilot basis.
This year farmers have increased the land under cultivation due to its profitability. Korba Krushak Unnayan Production Company Limited (KKUPCL) supported by BALCO and NABARD has successfully supplied Black rice to the state of Tamil Nadu this year.
According to research scientists of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Katghora, this special variety of rice is full of antioxidants and phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and cholesterol-lowering properties. Black rice is also an excellent source of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids.It is a very good source of fiber and helps in digestion. High fiber foods are also beneficial in reducing cholesterol level and blood sugar level. Anthocyanins give protection against heart diseases as it inhibits platelet aggregation and improve blood lipids. Due to these properties, black rice is considered good for diabetes and heart patients.
Appreciating the initiative, Abhijit Pati, CEO & Director, BALCO, said, “The initiative of promoting Black Rice cultivation by organic farming is a remarkable effort, it will enhance the livelihood of farmers. BALCO has always promoted best farming practices on a priority basis. I would like to recommend the farmers of the region to take maximum benefits from the joint schemes run by NABARD and BALCO.”
Sharing his experience, Ashok Chandra, a farmer from Dondro, said, ‘I started cultivation of Black Rice on one acre of land by organic farming technique, for the first time with the help of Vedanta Agriculture Resource Centre established by BALCO in the year 2020.
Earlier I used chemical fertilizers for farming but after using the organic farming technique I have realised that my cost of cultivation has reduced by 50%.’ Encouraged by the results of last year, Mr. Chandra has reaped Black Rice on four acres of land this year and has expressed his gratitude towards the organisation.
Sanjeev Pradhan, District Development Manager, informed that the scheme of NABARD-BALCO has benefitted the regional farmers. He also said that KKUPCL is playing a significant role in edifying the farmers about modern farming techniques and advantageous government schemes, along with helping the farmers to sell their produce on suitable price in the market.