Lenovo, the global technology powerhouse, celebrates a triumph as its Work for Humankind Initiative achieves the successful resurgence of six millet varieties in Kanthalloor, Kerala. Branded as Kanthalloor Millets, these varieties will find a place in local homestays and Anganwadi schools, showcasing the positive impact of Lenovo’s tech-driven prototype model on millet cultivation, production processes, and market linkages.
Key Achievements and Initiatives:
- Digital Center Empowerment:
- Establishment of the Lenovo Digital Center for Kanthalloor Millets at IHRD College for Applied Sciences, Kanthalloor.
- Providing digital access to the farming community for information on government schemes, crop insurance, diversification schemes, subsidies, and millet cultivation methods.
- Farmers using smartphones to stay connected with the digital center, volunteers, and the community.
- Strategic Partnerships:
- Collaboration with Samudra Network and Agri App to digitize the agricultural value chain for millet farming in Kanthalloor.
- Digitization includes crop detail tracking, processing operations for quality control, and the creation of a market catalog.
- Community Impact and Testimonials:
- Positive response from Kanthalloor Gram Panchayat President, Kanth Mohandas, highlighting the successful revival of traditional farming practices.
- Recognition of millet’s historical significance in Kanthalloor and gratitude towards Lenovo and project partners.
- Women-Empowered Millet Processing Center:
- Establishment of a millet processing center run by women members of the Kudumbashree Self-Help Group in Kanthalloor.
- Offering services to the farming community, purchasing millets from farmers, ensuring timely payments, and serving as a seed bank and sales hub for Kanthalloor Millets.
Pratima Harite, Head of Asia Pacific CSR & Philanthropy, Lenovo Foundation, emphasized the transformative impact of technology in reviving millet cultivation, making communities market-ready. Kanthalloor Gram Panchayat President, Kanth Mohandas, expressed gratitude and affirmed long-term support for the initiative.
Lenovo’s Work for Humankind Initiative stands as a testament to its commitment to creating a more inclusive world through smarter technology solutions. The success in Kanthalloor showcases how access to technology can transform communities, revive traditions, and promote sustainable agriculture.
