Vedanta Aluminium has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI), to drive sustainable agriculture and afforestation through the innovative utilisation of red mud, a major industrial by-product derived in the process of refining bauxite to alumina powder.
This initiative aims to convert red mud into a nutrient-rich growth medium, unlocking its potential for cultivation, land restoration, and the afforestation of erstwhile red mud storage areas. By leveraging scientific and industrial expertise, the initiative seeks to enhance soil health, boost crop productivity, and support large-scale ecological restoration.
The MoU was signed in the presence of the Kerala Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. The event was attended by a team of ICAR-CTCRI scientists, led by Byju, Director of ICAR-CTCRI, and comprising V Ramesh, M Nedunchezhiyan, and P Sethuraman Sivakumar.
Foundation for future
Quoting Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, a media statement said: “This venture, among many other circular economy avenues in Vedanta, is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Through this collaboration, Vedanta Aluminium and ICAR-CTCRI are creating an ecological opportunity demonstrating how scientific and industrial synergies can address both environmental and industrial challenges. We are laying the foundation for a future where industrial by-products such as red mud are effectively repurposed as environmental assets, a true ‘Red to Green’ revolution.”
Byju said: “This collaboration marks a significant milestone, combining ICAR-CTCRI’s robust agricultural research capabilities with Vedanta’s massive scale and industrial expertise. By working together, we hope to deliver innovative, scalable, and eco-friendly solutions that will benefit farmers, communities, and the environment alike.”
Published on July 18, 2025
