CSR Project restore Himalayan ecosystem, benefiting over 52,000 lives

Keeping in line with its principle of sustainable development, Hinduja Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the 110-year-old Hinduja Group, in collaboration with Central Himalayan Rural Action Group (CHIRAG), has announced measurable progress in water conservation and ecosystem restoration across the Himalayan region under its flagship Jal Jeevan initiative.

The Foundation’s integrated springshed management and afforestation project have benefitted over 52,000 people in remote villages of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, many of whom have historically struggled with acute water scarcity due to drying springs and degrading forests. 265 springs have been recharged, contributing 12.96 crore litres of annual water supply to the villagers.

This integrated approach has dramatically reduced the physical burden on women and children, who previously trekked several kilometers for water. With easier access, communities are now able to devote more time to education, farming, and livelihood generation, while also improving health and hygiene outcome.

Speaking on the initiative, Paul Abraham, President, Hinduja Foundation, said, “Under our flagship Jal Jeevan initiative, contributing to India’s Vision 2030 for water security and climate resilience, this partnership reflects the spirit of the Himalayas, living in harmony with nature while building resilience for the future. The recharged springs, thriving plantations, and empowered communities are not just outcomes; they represent a foundation for long-term climate action and sustainable development. This is just the beginning of what inclusive, community-led conservation can achieve.”

Commenting on the partnership’s impact, Badrish Singh Mehra, Executive Director, CHIRAG, added, “We deeply value the Hinduja Foundation’s long-term commitment to addressing the Himalayan water crisis and environmental degradation. This collaboration has not only restored ecosystems but also strengthened livelihoods, resilience, and dignity for thousands of mountain families.”

Key achievements of the springshed management and afforestation project:

– 265 springs recharged, contributing 12.96 crore litres of annual water supply

– 300 rainwater harvesting tanks constructed, capturing 96 lakh litres of rainwater annually

– 1.45 lakh saplings planted across 300 hectares with a 92.6% survival rate

– Employment increased between FY19 and FY25 through springs, rainwater harvesting tanks, and afforestation activities generated 59,942 person-days, benefiting 6,830 local community members

The afforestation efforts have significantly improved soil moisture, biodiversity, and climate resilience, vital for these ecologically sensitive regions. The project has also fostered local employment, wherein women, along with marginalized groups, have been empowered as custodians of their natural resources.

This model of community-led conservation could now serve as a replicable blueprint for climate-resilient development in fragile mountain ecosystems across India.

Backed by Hinduja Group companies including Ashok Leyland, Gulf Oil, IndusInd Insurance, Hinduja Renewables, Hinduja Foundation, and Ashok Leyland Foundation, the initiative has been recognized by NITI Aayog and the UN CEO Water Mandate for its climate-resilient approach and impact on the Ganga basin.

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