Bhubaneswar: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, has initiated a series of targeted monsoon health programs in the remote districts of Rayagada and Kalahandi, Odisha. The company’s Mobile Health Unit (MHU) program is at the forefront of these efforts, providing essential healthcare services and raising awareness to strengthen community well-being and prevent seasonal disease outbreaks.
A key focus of the drive is the prevention of malaria, a common monsoon-related ailment. To date, over 1,500 community members have received free malaria testing and have been educated on symptom recognition and crucial preventive measures, including sanitation, the use of mosquito nets, and eliminating stagnant water.
In a move to empower local residents, Vedanta also conducted a monsoon preparedness session for 80 women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across five villages. The session covered vital topics such as household hygiene, ensuring access to safe drinking water, precautionary measures for snake bites, and essential first-response techniques for timely treatment.
The company’s MHU program has been a cornerstone of its community health initiatives, providing quality healthcare to more than 20,000 residents in over 35 remote villages. The fully-equipped medical vans, staffed by a doctor, nurse, lab technician, and pharmacist, offer regular check-ups, screenings, blood sugar tests, and essential medicines. Over the past two years, this program has organized more than 2,000 free health camps, effectively bridging critical healthcare gaps in underserved regions.
“At Vedanta Aluminium, we are committed to proactive health interventions that go beyond addressing seasonal challenges,” said Rajiv Kumar, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium. “Our initiatives, like the Mobile Health Unit, are designed to ensure accessible healthcare and build healthier communities for the long term.”
A community member, Nabin Naik, expressed his appreciation, stating, “The awareness sessions conducted by Vedanta have significantly enhanced our understanding of health and safety practices during the monsoon. We now feel better equipped to protect our families and take preventive measures.”
These initiatives are part of Vedanta Aluminium’s broader commitment to empowering local communities through interventions in education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, infrastructure, and grassroots sports and culture. The company continues to work closely with local authorities and stakeholders to drive tangible socio-economic progress in Odisha.