Mukesh Ambani, the name synonymous with a vast empire encompassing petroleum, telecommunications, and retail, has added an unexpected yet significant feather to his cap – agriculture. Under his leadership, Reliance Industries Limited has achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the world’s largest exporter of mangoes. This transformation from a behemoth of industry to an agricultural powerhouse is both captivating and inspiring.
The journey began in 1997 when Reliance faced the daunting challenge of pollution emanating from its Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat. To address these environmental concerns and heed warnings from the Pollution Control Boards, Reliance embarked on a visionary initiative: turning the barren wastelands surrounding the refinery into a vibrant, lush green mango orchard. This initiative served a dual purpose – mitigating pollution while establishing a sustainable green belt around the industrial area. This orchard, aptly named Dhirubhai Ambani Lakhibag Amrayee, a tribute to Reliance’s founder, sprawls across 600 acres and is home to over 1.3 lakh mango trees, boasting an impressive array of more than 200 varieties. The name echoes the legacy of the historical Lakhibag orchard created by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
Overcoming challenges posed by high salinity and arid conditions demanded innovative solutions. Reliance implemented several technological advancements. They established a desalination plant to provide clean water to the orchard, significantly reducing pollution levels in the region. Furthermore, they employed advanced agricultural techniques such as water harvesting, drip irrigation, and simultaneous fertilization, ensuring the orchard’s flourishing.
The orchard boasts a rich diversity of mango varieties, including popular Indian types like Kesar, Alphonso, Ratna, Sindhu, Neelam, and Amrapali, as well as international varieties such as Tommy Atkins and Kent from Florida, and Lily, Keitt, and Maya from Israel. Each year, the orchard yields approximately 600 tonnes of premium quality mangoes, which find their way to both domestic and international markets, solidifying Reliance’s position as the largest mango exporter in Asia.
Reliance’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the orchard’s boundaries. The company encourages local farmers to adopt innovative agricultural practices by distributing one lakh free saplings annually and offering training sessions at the orchard. This initiative not only bolsters local agriculture but also strengthens Reliance’s role in promoting environmental stewardship and community development.
Mukesh Ambani’s venture into mango cultivation exemplifies how industrial giants can leverage their resources to address environmental challenges while simultaneously creating new business opportunities. The Dhirubhai Ambani Lakhibag Amrayee stands as a testament to Reliance’s innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to sustainability, making it a global leader in mango exports.
