New Delhi, March 16, 2023:
Coca-Cola India along with DeHaat today hosted a felicitation ceremony in Patna to celebrate and acknowledge the farmers of the state.
30+ farmers were honoured for displaying their exceptional productivity in the horticultural growth of the fruit Litchi in the region. Coca-Cola India in partnership with DeHaat had undertaken Project Unnati – Litchi. The program has been designed to diversify the livelihood of farmers and empower them with the knowledge and skills necessary to cultivate high-quality Litchis and increase their profitability.
The state of Bihar produces the majority of Litchi grown in India. Due to traditional practices of Litchi cultivation, Bihar experiences lower levels of productivity. One of the reasons for low productivity is also the lack of exposure of farmers to new and modern techniques. Project Unnati Litchi helps farmers implement the High-Density Plantation method, efficient agricultural processes, and end-to-end training, along with amplifying and supporting farmers in mastering cultivation techniques and post-harvest management. Under the Project, more than 80,000+ farmers are being trained and have received skill development in agri-tech to cultivate high-quality Litchis. Along with this, over 3000+ acres of land have been rejuvenated for Litchi cultivation in Bihar.
Rajesh Ayapilla, Director, CSR and Sustainability, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “We are proud to have played a role in empowering the farmers of Bihar and helping them achieve their goals. Through the project, we work on revitalising existing orchards, rejuvenating senile orchards, and educating farmers to enhance their livelihood and bring about a positive social and economic impact in their lives”.
Adarsh Srivastava, Co-Founder and Director, DeHaat, said, “With best sustainable practices and innovative agri-technology, we have capacitated the farmer community to adopt modern and efficient methods of cultivation. This inspiring passage of change has been instrumental in improving the socio-economic activity of the region through livelihood generation and enhancement of income levels. Through High-Density Plantation techniques, the production and yield of high quality of Litchi are possible, and this modern agri-tech is, therefore, crucial for farmers’ growth and impactful rural development”.
Project Unnati Litchi has aided in the development of a more resilient and sustainable farming community as well as created new opportunities for farmers. The farmers demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to their livelihood, and their success is a testament to the impact of investing in farmer education and diversifying their income sources.
Vipin Kumar Pandey, litchi farmer, the Vaishali district, said “Project Unnati Litchi helped me learn about high-density farming technique and its management. Through engaging training sessions and workshops, I am now able to cultivate a higher quantity and quality of Litchis. This has also enhanced my income and livelihood”.
