That India is grappling with a severe water crisis is well known, impacting economic growth, livelihoods and wellbeing, not to mention environmental health. Recognising the urgency of this challenge, The Art of Living has been remarkably proactive. As far back as 2013, the organisation has been leading a transformative water revolution across the country, restoring life to forgotten rivers and parched lands. As the renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, “Our survival depends on water. It is the basis of our life force. We need to protect and nurture the source of water.“

Naganadhi river revived by women power

Sustainable Water Management to Make India Water +ve

From the rugged landscapes of Karnataka to the arid plains of Rajasthan, the organisation’s River Rejuvenation Projects have spelt hope for millions, impacting over 34.5 million lives across 19,400 villages. With the construction of over 92,000 groundwater recharge structures, the removal of 270 lakh cubic metres of silt from water bodies, and the revitalisation of 59,000 square kilometres of land, these initiatives conserve an impressive 174.02 billion litres of water – and the numbers continue to rise.

The Sangaredddy JalTara construction in progress

What sets The Art of Living’s approach apart is its holistic vision. By bringing together government agencies, corporate partners, NGOs, and local communities, they’ve created a blueprint for sustainable water management. Their success is not just in conserving water but in creating thriving ecosystems and resilient communities. This ripple effect is transforming lives and environments across India, providing a powerful model for addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Sangareddy District, Telangana: Addressing Water Scarcity with JalTara

1,000 JalTara structures are being built in Sangareddy, Telangana to enhance rainwater harvesting and boost groundwater levels through CSR collaboration. To date, 300 recharge structures have been completed, with the remaining work progressing steadily.

These water conservation programmes shine as a model of excellence in sustainable water management, offering a revolutionary approach to tackling groundwater depletion and agricultural challenges. The Art of Living has laid the foundation for vibrant, resilient communities through these initiatives, setting a precedent for immense progress. By blending collaboration with innovation, the organisation demonstrates how we can effectively confront and overcome environmental hurdles.

44,000 Women Revive Naganadhi – after a 20 year dry spell!

The Art of Livings Naganadhi River Rejuvenation project in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, is a shining example of how ecological restoration can drive social transformation. This initiative has had a profound impact, simultaneously revitalising the river and empowering women. Thanks to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), over 44,000 women have gained not only employment and income stability but also essential skills. With the capacity-building and technical training provided by The Art of Living, these women have effectively led the project, which has now been replicated across 15 districts in Tamil Nadu, rejuvenating 25 river streams.

The projects impact has caught the attention of prominent figures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted it in his “Mann Ki Baat“, recognising the Naganadhi River Rejuvenation Model as a benchmark for similar efforts across the state.Tamil Nadus Governor, R. N. Ravi, also acknowledged The Art of Living’s exceptional contribution with a memorable award, celebrating the projects significant achievements in both environmental and social spheres.

As the world faces increasing environmental pressures, The Art of Living’s water conservation programmes offer enormous hope. By combining grassroots efforts with innovative solutions, they are showing that large-scale change is possible when communities come together with a shared vision for a better future. This ripple effect is transforming lives and environments across India, providing a powerful model for addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Reviving Andhra’s Rivers: A Bold Step Toward Water Restoration
The Andhra Pradesh River Rejuvenation Project is tackling the pressing issue of declining rivers and groundwater caused by deforestation, soil erosion, overuse, and unpredictable rainfall. With innovative Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) techniques, it aims to safeguard against climate change. In partnership with the State Panchayat Raj departments and MGNREGA, the project is driving impactful change on the ground. A newly signed MOU between the Commissioner of Panchayat Raj and The Art of Living reflects strong government backing, with a focus on revitalising the entire river basins of Cuddapah and Anantapur. Phase 1 training is complete in Kadapa, while work kicks off in Muddanur Mandal, where 1,000 recharge structures are set to rise – 400 of which are already making a difference.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

Inspired by the world renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar; The Art of Living champions various initiatives; including water conservation, sustainable agriculture, afforestation, free education, skill development, women empowerment, integrated village development, renewable energy and waste management. Through these multifaceted efforts, The Art of Living strives to create positive social and environmental impact, fostering a more sustainable and harmonious future for all.

This is part 2 of a 5 part exploration into The Art of Livings transformative water conservation work across India.

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