Mumbai, March 20, 2026: On the occasion of World Water Day, the Hinduja Foundation announced that its flagship Jal Jeevan initiative has enabled the recharge of over 5 trillion litres of groundwater, strengthening water security and rural livelihoods across India.
The programme has been implemented across 16 states, covering more than 4,000 villages and impacting nearly 6 million people. It has also enhanced irrigation systems across 117,620 hectares of farmland, contributing to improved agricultural productivity and climate resilience in water-stressed regions.
The Jal Jeevan initiative follows an integrated approach to water management, combining watershed and springshed development, rainwater harvesting, restoration of traditional water bodies, and improved access to domestic water through interventions such as water ATMs and rooftop harvesting systems. The programme also promotes climate-resilient agricultural practices to support long-term sustainability.
Mr. Raman Kalyanakrishnan, CEO, Hinduja Foundation, said: “Water security is closely linked to livelihood security in rural India. Through the Hinduja Group’s Jal Jeevan initiative, we are working with communities to build sustainable water infrastructure that improves domestic water access, supports agriculture, and strengthens resilience against climate uncertainty. Our focus is on community-driven solutions that ensure long-term, responsible, and efficient use of water resources.”
The initiative has led to the revival or recharge of over 20,000 open wells, restoration of 125 lakes and 450 springs, and installation of 4,000 rooftop rainwater harvesting systems. In Uttarakhand alone, 267 springs have been rejuvenated, enhancing water availability in Himalayan regions.
A notable project under the initiative is the development of freshwater reservoirs at the Holy Jhulelal Tirthdham campus in Kutch, Gujarat, which has contributed to ecosystem restoration, biodiversity support, and resilience against rising sea levels.
In addition to improving water access, the programme has reduced the burden of water collection for rural households, particularly benefiting women, while also improving sanitation, hygiene, and livestock management. Community participation has been central to the initiative, with local groups engaged in maintaining water assets to ensure long-term impact.
As climate-related water challenges intensify, the Hinduja Foundation stated that it will continue to expand the Jal Jeevan initiative through partnerships with government bodies, civil society organisations, and local institutions to scale sustainable water solutions.
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