Barbil :On World Earth Day 2024, Vedanta Sesa Goa’s Iron Ore Orissa (IOO) reiterated its commitment towards
promoting environmental sustainability with a comprehensive program aimed at raising awareness and
imbibing a culture to embrace sustainable practices within the community. The event was carried out in
the esteemed presence of Padma Shri Daitari Naik, affectionately known as the Canal Man of Odisha,
whose dedication to environmental conservation has been an inspiration for many.
As part of the initiative and in-line with the occasion, IOO distributed 54 fruit-bearing trees to the
Nadidhi Village’s Self-Help Group (SHG) led by women, empowering them to positively contribute
towards improving the environment of their locality while promoting biodiversity and sustainability. In
addition, an awareness session was conducted on the theme “Impact of Plastic Usage on Health” led by
the Medical and Health Unit (MHU) team. The session aimed to educate participants on the adverse
effects of plastic on both human health and the environment, emphasizing the importance of reducing
plastic consumption and adopting eco-friendly alternatives.
A tree plantation ceremony was also carried out at Vedanta’s office premises in the esteemed presence
of Padma Shri Daitari Naik, symbolic of IOO’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its
dedication to creating a greener and healthier planet.
Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Padma Shri Daitari Naik said, 'I highly admire Vedanta Sesa Goa’s
long-standing commitment towards promoting sustainability and their initiatives that have had a
positive impact on the environment and the community at large. Today’s youth plays a vital role in
inspiring positive change within the community & hence, I urge the youth to embrace sustainable
practices and promote them positively. It is only with such dedicated efforts can we make this world a
better place to live in.'
As part of the program, winners of the World Earth Day quiz competition that was conducted prior to
the event were also felicitated. These included vedanta employees including Saad Rizvi (HR), Shreyasi
Sen (Mining), & Namita Behera (TSD) from IOO.
Expressing his views, Biswanath Sahoo, COO, IOO, said, 'As we commemorate World Earth Day,
Vedanta Sesa Goa’s Iron Ore Orissa (IOO) is proud to lead by example for environmental stewardship.
Through tangible actions like tree distributions, educational sessions, and recognizing our employees'
contributions, we're actively shaping a sustainable future for generations to come. Our commitment
towards ‘giving back’ isn't just a thought – it's a daily practice rooted in our belief that every small step
counts towards a greener, healthier planet for all.”