CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: While the scale of India’s water crisis is overwhelming, The Art of Living’s approach goes beyond numbers and statistics – it’s about empowering people to take ownership of the water challenge in their own communities. As Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, renowned humanitarian, spiritual leader and founder of The Art of Living, often says, “Our survival depends on water. It is the basis of our life force. We need to protect and nurture the source of water.”
The Art of Living’s River Rejuvenation Projects are not just about restoring water sources – they’re about encouraging local communities to take charge. Across 20,000+ villages, over 34.5 million lives have been impacted, with local villagers and volunteers actively participating in building 92,000 groundwater recharge structures, removing 270 lakh cubic metres of silt, and revitalising 59,000 square kilometres of land.
The Art of Living excels in developing sustainable models that are both innovative and easily replicable. The organisation’s community-driven approach ensures that water conservation is not just a temporary fix but a long term solution, safeguarding 174.02 billion litres of water annually and strengthening India’s water security.
The Bhujal Shakti River Rejuvenation Project
In the heart of Rampur district, Uttar Pradesh, The Art of Living’s Bhujal Shakti River Rejuvenation Project is driving remarkable change. Chamraua Block, once labelled “overexploited” by the Groundwater Authority of Uttar Pradesh in 2017, is now a symbol of hope. Thanks to a powerful collaboration with local CSR partners, the region has witnessed impressive interventions. To date, 283 recharge shafts have been installed across 120 ponds, along with a subsurface dyke (SSD) across 74 villages in six talukas – helping restore vital groundwater levels.
This transformative impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. In recognition of its groundbreaking efforts, the project was honoured with the Water Conservation Appreciation Award by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for 2022-23.
