CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the esteemed founder of The Art of Living and a renowned global spiritual leader, highlights a fundamental truth: “Our survival depends on water. It is the basis of our life force. We need to protect and nurture the source of water.” This guiding principle is vividly demonstrated through The Art of Living’s River Rejuvenation Projects, which have revitalised regions from Karnataka’s rugged landscapes to Rajasthan’s arid stretches. Touching over 34.5 million people in 19,400 villages, these projects have established more than 92,000 groundwater recharge structures, removed 270 lakh cubic metres of silt from water bodies, and rejuvenated 59,000 square kilometres of land, conserving approximately 125.54 billion litres of water annually.
The Art of Living stands out for its holistic approach, partnering with governments, corporates, NGOs, and communities to create water management models that go beyond conservation. Their efforts are restoring ecosystems and empowering communities, demonstrating how integrated solutions can tackle environmental challenges.
The efforts in Karnataka have been nothing short of transformative in regions such as the Kumudvathi, Vedavathi, and Palar river basins.
40,000+ structures designed to let rainwater naturally recharge the groundwater.
1,50,000+ trees planted
1,00,000+ cubic metres of desilting completed
13,000+ villages benefited
Bangalore, once known for its lakes and greenery, now exemplifies the impact of uncontrolled urban sprawl. The Art of Living is tackling this challenge:
14,000 groundwater recharge structures planned across the most affected areas..
500 JalTara structures already installed in Tumkur, Kolar, and Kanakapura
Plans are afoot to add about 10,000 groundwater structures in Chikballapur, Malur, and Devanahalli talukas – including 2,450 structures to be completed this year.
Sangareddy District, Telangana: Addressing Water Scarcity with JalTara
1,000 JalTara structures being built to enhance rainwater harvesting and boost groundwater levels
300 recharge structures completed
Ongoing work progressing steadily with CSR collaboration
44,000 Women Revive Naganadhi – after a 20 year dry spell!
This project showcases the power of combining grassroots efforts with innovative solutions, driving significant environmental and social change.
Revitalised the Naganadhi River and empowered over 44,000 women through MGNREGA
Providing employment, income stability, and technical training for women leaders
Rejuvenating 25 river streams across 15 districts in Tamil Nadu
