Hyundai initiative helps Chenchus take up sustainable agroforestry
A total of 115 Chenchu tribal families in Nandyal district have been transformed from subsistence farming to sustainable agroforestry by the Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), through its Hyundai IONIQ Forest initiative.
Launched in October 2022, the Phase I of the initiative has enhanced livelihoods of Chenchu families spread across the villages of Chenchu Lakshmi Gudem, Narapureddy Kunta, Bairlooty and Nagalooty in Nandyal district by integrating sustainable agroforestry, land and water management and capacity building interventions, HMIF officials said.
Under Phase 1, a total of 250 acres of land has been developed for long-term income generation through horticulture plantations, supported by assured irrigation infrastructure such as bore wells and drip irrigation systems. This has improved water efficiency, soil fertility and sustained agricultural practices, reducing dependency on forest resources and promoting environmental sustainability. Diversified agroforestry practices, including intercropping, have enhanced household incomes, generating ₹24.56 lakh across four villages during the last two years. Additionally, the project leveraged ₹75.53 lakhs from various State government departments, including horticulture, Integrated Tribal Development Agency [ITDA] and schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme [MGNREGS], further strengthening food security and self-reliance within these communities.
The second phase of its Agroforestry initiative — Hyunddai IONIQ Forest — was launched on Sunday (May 11) to extend environment and sustainable livelihood support to tribal and marginalised families across 20 villages in Nandyal and Kurnool districts.
At the ceremony, Assistant Project Director ITDA A.G.Nayak, ITDA's Divisional Horticulture Officer K Chandana and HMIF officials unveiled the project name board and handed over saplings to the beneficiaries. Vice president and regional director (South) of BAIF B. Shivarudrappa was also present during the occasion.
In this second phase, HMIF will support the beneficiaries with land levelling, pit digging, saplings supply, fencing, exposure visits and training in sustainable farming techniques such as intercropping and crop management. Additionally, farmers will receive organic manure, mechanised tilling and ploughing support.
With a total funding of ₹5.3 crore, the project will help cultivate 600 acres of land owned by 290 farmers cumulatively, making them self-reliant.
Commenting on the launch of the second phase of Agroforestry 'Hyundai IONIQ Forest' project, trustee of the HMIF Gopalakrishnan C. S. said: 'Hyundai IONIQ Forest is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. By integrating agroforestry with livelihood support, we aim to support tribal and marginalised families achieve self-reliance. Through such initiatives, we continue to drive sustainable progress and meaningful change, reinforcing Hyundai's global vision of 'Progress for Humanity'.'
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