Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Limited has ventured into agriculture by transforming barren lands around its Jamnagar refinery into Asia’s largest mango orchard. This shift highlights the company’s innovative approach to addressing environmental and sustainability issues.
In 1997, Reliance Industries faced significant pollution challenges at its Jamnagar refinery. To address these issues and meet Pollution Control Board regulations, the company initiated a project to convert surrounding barren lands into a mango orchard. The initiative aimed to create a green belt and reduce environmental impact.
Spanning 600 acres, the orchard is named after Reliance’s founder, Dhirubhai Ambani, and features over 130,000 mango trees of more than 200 varieties. The name reflects a historical connection to the Lakhibag orchard established by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
To overcome the region's high salinity and arid conditions, Reliance employed advanced technologies. This includes a desalination plant for clean water, as well as techniques like water harvesting, drip irrigation, and simultaneous fertilization to support the orchard's growth and sustainability.
The orchard produces a wide range of mango varieties, including popular Indian types such as Kesar, Alphonso, and Amrapali, as well as international cultivars like Tommy Atkins and Kent from Florida, and Lily and Maya from Israel. This diversity caters to both domestic and international markets.
Annually, the orchard yields approximately 600 tonnes of mangoes, positioning Reliance as Asia’s largest exporter of mangoes. The company’s products are distributed globally, showcasing its significant role in the international fruit market.
Reliance actively promotes sustainability by distributing 100,000 saplings annually to local farmers and offering training on innovative agricultural practices. These efforts are part of the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and community development.
The transformation of barren lands into a thriving mango orchard reflects Reliance's ability to leverage industrial resources for environmental and economic benefits. This project not only addresses pollution but also contributes to the local economy and global agricultural trade.
Mukesh Ambani’s initiative in mango cultivation exemplifies how industrial ventures can address environmental challenges while fostering economic growth. The Dhirubhai Ambani Lakhibag Amrayee stands as a testament to Reliance’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in agriculture.