Berhampur, September: TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) has received the prestigious BeVokal CSR’25 Award in the ‘Shakti’ category for its project “Promotion of Organic Finger Millets.” The recognition highlights TPSODL’s commitment in improving rural livelihoods and supporting women-led farming initiatives in Southern Odisha.
The project was carried out in Doraguda Gram Panchayat of Boipariguda block in Koraput District. Implemented in partnership with NGO – PRAGATI, Koraput, it directly supported 510 small and marginal women farmers across 18 villages, most of them from tribal communities. The aim was to introduce better farming techniques, promote organic millet cultivation, and connect farmers to markets.
The results have been remarkable. Farmers adopted improved cultivation methods like System of Millet Intensification and line transplanting, which doubled their yields compared to traditional practices. From 250 acres of land, they harvested over 2,200 quintals of millet. Many farmers sold their produce at government mandis under MSP, earning higher incomes and greater financial security.
To ensure sustainability, 212 farmers became shareholders in the Jaivik Sri Farmers Producer Company Ltd. A millet processing unit has also been set up with modern machinery for cleaning, dehusking, and grinding. Along with this, several farmers accessed government incentives and support schemes, making the project more impactful.
Mr. Amit Kumar Garg, CEO of TPSODL, said, “This award is a proud moment for us. Our millet project shows how empowering women farmers can create lasting changes. It not only preserves traditional crops but also secures livelihoods and strengthens communities. At TPSODL, we remain committed to build a sustainable and inclusive future for Southern Odisha”
