BALCO Spreads Awareness on Biodiversity and Wildlife Harmony through Community Outreach Initiatives

Drives awareness session on conservation of Sloth Bears while promoting responsible habits for harmonious coexistence in forest-adjacent villages

Balconagar; 27^th May 2025: Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a part of Vedanta Aluminium, observed International Day for Biological Diversity in collaboration with The Animal Care Organization (TACO) by conducting community awareness programmes in nearby villages, aligned with this year’s theme “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.” These sessions aimed to sensitise local communities with scientific knowledge on wildlife behaviour, conflict mitigation, and biodiversity conservation, encouraging a culture of harmonious coexistence.

With a special focus on the conservation of sloth bears, a native species found in the forests of Korba, the sessions explained animal behaviour to help reduce human-wildlife conflict. With the active participation of over 300 community members, including school students, the sessions also highlighted the importance of preserving natural habitats. Activities included Nukkad Natak (street plays) depicting relatable real-life scenarios that reinforced safe and empathetic practices for conserving wildlife. Storytelling and quizzes further initiated dialogue on respecting ecosystems and conserving local wildlife.

Officials from the District Forest and Veterinary Departments attended the programme, offering insights into local biodiversity and promoting informed environmental stewardship among residents in forest-adjacent areas. The initiative also received support from local panchayat members, environmentalists, and NGOs.

As part of its continued commitment to conservation of biodiversity, BALCO has undertaken several impactful interventions in partnership with the Social Revival Group of Urban, Rural and Tribal (SROUT). These also include regular community cleanliness drives, plantation activities, and animal welfare initiatives, all aimed at encouraging community-led efforts to restore and sustain the local ecosystem.

Speaking on the preservation of local ecosystems, Rajesh Kumar, CEO & Director, BALCO said, “At BALCO, we believe that true progress lies in harmonizing industrial growth with environmental stewardship. On International Biodiversity Day, our community engagement initiatives reaffirm our commitment to preserving local ecosystems and fostering coexistence with wildlife. As we move forward on our journey of responsible operations, we continue to align our efforts with the vision of zero harm, sustainable development, and nation-building.”

Dinesh Dixit, an active environmentalist from the region, while addressing the participants, stated “Community participation plays a vital role in conserving biodiversity, especially in regions adjoining forest areas. Initiatives like those undertaken by BALCO are commendable as they bridge scientific awareness and grassroots action.”

Talking about the role of cleanliness in the vicinity, Uttam Khunte, Forest Department, Korba, said “Maintaining cleanliness in and around residential areas is one of the most effective ways to prevent the attraction of wild animals. Proper disposal of food waste and elimination of open garbage reduce the chances of wildlife venturing into residential areas ensuring safety of both communities and animals.”

Sharing his personal experience, Mangal Singh, a resident of the village, expressed, “Understanding the natural rhythm of animals plays a pivotal role in preventing conflicts. Avoiding movement during early mornings or nighttime, key hours of wildlife activity, significantly reduces the likelihood of human-animal encounters and ensures the safety of all. I am thankful to BALCO for sharing this knowledge with us.”

BALCO’s commitment to biodiversity extends beyond awareness programmes through several initiatives like:

• Distribution of over 3,000 reflective collars in collaboration with the District Veterinary Department to reduce road accidents involving cattle.
• Veterinary health camps benefiting more than 2,500 cattle in the region.
• Vaccination drives for over 300 dogs to mitigate the risk of zoonotic diseases such as rabies.
• Introduction of the Water Bowl Challenge to address heat stress among stray animals, by placing hydration bowls in high-footfall areas and mobilising community support.

About TACO

Launched in April 2022, The Animal Care Organization (TACO) is Vedanta Limited’s flagship animal welfare initiative, aimed at strengthening the ecosystem for stray and community animals. It offers comprehensive services including rescue, rehabilitation, preventive care, geriatric support, and free OPD facilities for livestock and pets. TACO also operates a super specialty veterinary hospital equipped for diagnostics, emergency response, spaying and neutering, and advanced treatment. All business units of Vedanta Limited, including BALCO, actively contribute to advancing TACO’s mission of holistic animal care.