Bengaluru, Karnataka, India (NewsVoir)

It is well known that India is grappling with a serious water crisis, affecting economic growth, livelihoods and well-being, not to mention environmental health. Recognizing the urgency of this challenge, The Art of Living has been remarkably proactive. Already in 2013, the organization has been leading a transformative water revolution across the country, bringing life back to forgotten rivers and arid lands. As 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 nourish the water source.”

Sustainable water management to make India Water +veFrom the rugged landscapes of Karnataka to the arid plains of Rajasthan, the organization's River Rejuvenation Projects have brought hope to millions of people and impacted more than 34.5 million of lives in 19,400 villages. With the construction of over 92,000 groundwater recharge structures, removal of 270 lakh cubic meters of sediment from water bodies and revitalization of 59,000 square kilometers of land, these initiatives conserve an impressive 174.02 billion liters of water, and the numbers continue to increase. .

What distinguishes The Art of Living approach is its holistic vision. By bringing together government agencies, corporate partners, NGOs and local communities, they have created a plan for sustainable water management. Its success lies not only 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 to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Sangareddy district, Telangana: Addressing water scarcity with JalTara1,000 JalTara structures are being constructed in Sangareddy, Telangana, to improve rainwater harvesting and increase groundwater levels through CSR collaboration. To date, 300 recharge structures have been completed and the remaining work is progressing steadily.

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

44,000 women revive Naganadhi, after a 20-year drought! The Art of Living's 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 revitalizing the river and empowering women. Thanks to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), more than 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 in 15 districts of Tamil Nadu, rejuvenating 25 river streams.

The impact of the project has attracted the attention of prominent figures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this in his 'Mann Ki Baat', recognizing the Naganadhi river rejuvenation model as a benchmark for similar efforts across the state. Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi also recognized the exceptional contribution of The Art of Living with a memorable award. celebrating the important achievements of the project in both the environmental and social spheres.

As the world faces increasing environmental pressures, The Art of Living's water conservation programs offer enormous hope. By combining grassroots efforts with innovative solutions, they are demonstrating that large-scale change is possible when communities come together with a shared vision of a better future. This ripple effect is transforming lives and environments across India, providing a powerful model to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Inspired by world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar; The Art of Living defends 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 two of a five-part exploration of The Art of Living's transformative water conservation work across India.

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