About Annapurna Cottage Industries 

In the year 1987, amidst the tranquil villages of India, Annapurna Cottage Industries (ACI) came into being, a beacon of hope and sustainable progress. Founded by the visionary R.D Raj, the primary objective was to cultivate a sustainable livelihood for rural India in an eco-friendly manner that would not harm humanity or the environment.

With a remarkable 33 years of experience in the field, R.D Raj stood as the CEO and guiding force of the company. He was not just a leader; he was a resource coordinator, an educator, and a beacon of change. Throughout his journey, he organized and participated in numerous training camps, imparting invaluable knowledge to over 100,000 rural and tribal youth across states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Orissa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

The accolades adorned by R.D Raj and ACI painted a picture of dedication and impact. In 2010, R.D Raj was honored with the National Award in the Social Category for his outstanding contribution to training and empowering self-help groups. ACI's representation and exceptional performance at the 9th SAART Trade Fair in Bhutan were recognized, showcasing their commitment on an international stage. Their influence reached far beyond borders, as they were appreciated and celebrated at the World Women Telugu Conference in 2019 in Malaysia.

R.D Raj's influence extended to a multitude of esteemed organizations, where he served as a resource coordinator. NIRDPR, DIC, ORMAS, GCC, ITDA, KVIB, KVIC - these were the platforms where his wisdom and leadership flourished, guiding and inspiring countless individuals.

Innovation was the cornerstone of ACI's journey. The introduction of the "Leaf Plate Making Technology" marked a turning point, offering an alternative to single-use plastic. They evolved into machinery manufacturers for paper plate production. Collaborating with CFTRI, ACI brought forth the annatto seed breaking machine. Their collaboration with NIRDPR led to the enhancement of mud block making technology, incorporating hydraulic equipment for higher production.

ACI's history was a tapestry of major projects that left an indelible mark on communities. The partnership with NIRD & PR witnessed ACI conducting classes and workshops, becoming a hub for learning. Under the banner of GCC, ACI trained 2000 individuals, making a significant impact in the Araku and Rampachodavaram regions.

One of ACI's most impressive feats was a special project designed for ORMAS. Training 25000 women under the watchful eyes of a parliamentary committee led by Hon’ble Central Minister Mrs. Margaret Alwa showcased the magnitude of ACI's dedication.

Their influence extended far and wide. Collaborating with CREDA, ACI introduced leaf plate making to farmers in Nalgonda and Ranga Reddy Districts. NABARD saw ACI initiating leaf plate making programs for tribals in Srikakulam and Vijayanagaram Districts.

Their outreach was unstoppable. ACI collaborated with AP COST, training in 30 Mandals under the 'Samada' Project. DRDA witnessed ACI's impactful training of 15,000 individuals across districts like Nizamabad, Warangal, Karimnagar, Srikakulam, and Nalgonda. ITDA provided a platform for ACI to train 1000 individuals, leaving a mark in Badrachalam and Paderu.

Annapurna Cottage Industries wasn't just a company; it was a movement. It was a journey of one man's vision, his dedication, and his ability to transform lives through sustainable practices. ACI's story was a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment. As they continued to touch lives, Annapurna Cottage Industries remained a shining example of how a single idea could blossom into a force for change, leaving a legacy of progress and empowerment for generations to come.