Hyundai's Agroforestry Benefits 115 Tribal Families In Nandyal

Nandyal: Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has empowered 115 Chenchu tribal families in Nandyal district in Andhra Pradesh by transitioning them from subsistence farming to sustainable agroforestry through its Hyundai IONIQ Forest initiative.

Launched in October 2022, 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.

With a total funding of Rs5.3 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 recently, Gopalakrishnan C S, Trustee, Hyundai Motor India Foundation 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’.”

Under Phase 1, a total of 250 acres 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 Rs24.56 lakh across four villages during the last two years.

Additionally, the project leveraged Rs75.53 lakh from various State Government departments including Department of 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 was launched recently to extend environment and sustainable livelihood support to tribal and marginalised families across 20 villages in Nandyal and Kurnool districts. At the ceremony, AG Nayak, Assistant Project Director, ITDA, K Chandana, Divisional Horticulture Officer, ITDA and HMIF officials unveiled the project name board and handed over saplings to the beneficiaries. B Shivarudrappa, vice president and regional director–south, BAIF NGO was also present during the occasion.