Trichy, 30 th January 2024: Taking a significant step towards the promotion of sustainable
agricultural practices, Dalmia Bharat Foundation (DBF), the Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) arm of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd (DCBL), 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. Recommended by
the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Tamil Nadu Agriculture University and the Agriculture
Department of Pest Control, this device is a highly advantageous tool for farmers, contributing
to sustainable and efficient farming practices. The training session and distribution of the solar
light traps for the project were conducted under DBF’s Gram Parivatan Project. Additionally,
100 vermi compost bags and 100 Azollo production bags were distributed to the core village
beneficiaries as part of organic farming practices.
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. 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.”
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.
Dalmia Bharat Foundation spearheads community development with a focus on rural
upliftment. Under their Gram Parivartan Project it aims to promote economic development in
village households and qualitative improvements in the standard of living for
targeted families in a region.