BC Jindal Foundation Deploys Rs 21 Crore to Boost Farm Incomes Via Horticulture in Maharashtra

The BC Jindal Foundation, the corporate social responsibility division of the BC Jindal Group, has revealed substantial progress in its Farmer Livelihood Enhancement Program, which has reached more than 5,514 marginal farmers spread across 1,168 villages in 13 districts throughout Maharashtra.

The foundation has committed Rs 21 crore cumulatively to this large-scale intervention, with an additional Rs 5 crore earmarked for FY 2026-27. Working alongside Global Vikas Trust, the program concentrates on horticultural expansion, diversifying crop patterns, and building farmer capabilities in the Marathwada region to generate sustainable income growth.

Shyam Sunder Jindal, promoter of the BC Jindal Group, has steered the initiative as a response to pressing rural economic challenges. A company representative explained that the program facilitates a transition away from conventional farming systems toward high-value horticulture and sericulture activities. The approach combines technical expertise, connections to market opportunities, and contemporary agricultural methods tailored to local conditions.

The Marathwada region was deliberately chosen for this intervention due to its vulnerability to severe agricultural stress. The area faces persistent challenges including repeated droughts, unpredictable monsoon patterns, deteriorating soil conditions, and heavy reliance on rainfall-dependent farming. Community consultations with local governance bodies and residents indicated substantial enthusiasm for transitioning to orchard-based farming and environmentally conscious agricultural techniques.

The initiative has already facilitated the planting of over 84 lakh horticultural saplings, with plans to establish an additional 20 lakh plantations during FY 2026-27. The varieties include mango, guava, banana, lemon, papaya, mulberry, and custard apple, collectively spanning more than 5,460 acres.

An independent evaluation found that participating farmers now generate an average yearly income of approximately Rs 3 lakh from these activities, with net returns reaching Rs 2 lakh per acre from horticulture and sericulture ventures. This represents roughly a five-fold improvement in earnings relative to conventional farming approaches.

Beyond financial gains, the program has strengthened ecological resilience. The extensive plantation efforts sequester carbon, restore soil quality, and contribute to long-term environmental equilibrium.

The foundation emphasized that the program aligns with global sustainability objectives, particularly targeting the elimination of hunger, advancement of dignified employment and economic prosperity, mitigation of social disparities, and environmental protection through farmer empowerment.

Established in 1952 by BC Jindal, the group operates across multiple sectors including packaging films, energy generation, and steel manufacturing, maintaining operations as one of India's major industrial enterprises under Shyam Sunder Jindal's leadership.