Mumbai, September 29, 2026: Allcargo Group, through its CSR arm Avashya Foundation, is expanding Project Maitree in FY 2026–27 with a target of 3 lakh saplings across 81 villages in Maharashtra, with the programme aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for around 5,000 farmers and their families.

The initiative combines plantation-based livelihood development with environmental conservation, with a focus on rural and tribal communities. The FY27 programme covers Palghar, Raigad, Nashik and Amravati districts, where fruit-bearing, timber and multipurpose species are being promoted as potential long-term productive assets for participating households.

According to the company, around 2.2 lakh plants were distributed across Palghar and Nashik, benefiting approximately 4,400 farmers. Another 30,000 plants were distributed in Raigad and Karjat for around 600 farmers, while 50,000 plants were planted through a community-based model in Amravati.

The programme includes species such as Mango, Cashew, Teak, Lemon, Guava, Custard Apple, Jackfruit and Bamboo. The plantation model is intended to support additional income opportunities while contributing to green cover and sustainable land-use practices.

Dr. Nilratan Shende, Head – CSR, Allcargo Group, said, “Project Maitree is built on the belief that environmental conservation and livelihood creation can reinforce each other. By enabling farmers to develop productive plantation assets alongside their existing agricultural activities, we aim to create opportunities for additional income while strengthening the ecological resilience of rural communities. This year’s expansion will help us deepen that impact across more villages and households.”

A key focus of the programme is to create livelihood opportunities closer to participating communities and reduce dependence on seasonal migration. As plantations mature, fruit-bearing and multipurpose species are expected to provide households with additional sources of income.

The FY27 programme is being implemented with support from Digant Swaraj Foundation, Light of Life Trust and Khoj Foundation, which are supporting community mobilisation, plantation planning, sapling distribution, training and field-level monitoring.

Allcargo said Project Maitree has so far facilitated the plantation of more than 1.6 million trees across Maharashtra. The latest phase is expected to add another 3 lakh plantations while extending the programme’s focus on livelihood diversification and community participation.