Mathura, August 24, 2023. PepsiCo India, in collaboration with partner Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI), has introduced the Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) program in Uttar Pradesh as part of World Water Week 2023. Reflecting its 'Winning with pep+' philosophy, the program's inauguration took place at Puthari in Chatta Tehsil, Mathura, with the presence of Shri Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Minister of Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Ahmed ElSheikh, President, PepsiCo India.One of the seven community rainwater harvesting ponds, strategically established to enhance local watersheds and replenish water used in manufacturing, was inaugurated. Smt. Hema Malini, Actress and Member of Lok Sabha, Mathura constituency, conveyed her appreciation through a video message. Shri Nardev Chaudhary, Director DCB, Mathura, and Rajinder Nijjar, Managing Director, ADI, were also part of the event.PepsiCo India's comprehensive water resource strategy aims to replenish 100% of the water utilized in manufacturing processes while revitalizing at-risk local watersheds. The initiative involves the construction of seven community rainwater harvesting ponds, which hold a groundwater recharge capacity of 214 million litres. These ponds contribute to groundwater recharge in seven nearby villages.
Speaking at the occasion, Shri Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Minister of Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry, Government of Uttar Pradesh, said, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to PepsiCo India and ADI for their commendable efforts in launching a community based Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) program to conserve and replenish ground water in the villages of Mathura. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Uttar Pradesh government's Mission Amrit Sarovar, which aims to restore and invigorate water bodies in the state. PepsiCo India's actions exemplify how corporate responsibility can be effectively harnessed for the greater public welfare.”
Smt. Hema Malini, Actress and Member of Parliament, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, further added in the video message, “As we strive to preserve and restore the vital community water ponds, we applaud PepsiCo India and ADI for their efforts. By actively engaging local communities, partnerships such as these demonstrate true harmony in their collective endeavor to conserve water, leaving a legacy of shared commitment to safeguard this precious resource.”
Commenting on the initiative, Ahmed ElSheikh, President, PepsiCo India, said, “PepsiCo India is excited to partner with Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI) to bring our Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) strategy to Uttar Pradesh. We endeavor to be partners in progress and are dedicated to replenishing water in local watersheds and continue to raise awareness through community trainings and sustainable practices. Continuous support of Government of Uttar Pradesh and our partner, ADI have enabled us to move forward in this journey towards sustainable growth.”
Rajinder Nijjar, Managing Director, Alternative Development Initiatives, said, “In partnership with PepsiCo India, we initiated a comprehensive study of all the villages under Chatta Tehsil to understand the concern of the area and accordingly plan a long-term sustainable water resource development & management strategy. Village communities and local stakeholders are the nucleus in these initiatives and are involved from the very beginning. Our joint efforts towards these interventions would improve the water quality, groundwater scenario and enhance capacities of the communities for creation of livelihoods in the area.”
In conjunction with the initiative, PepsiCo India and Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI) have organized training programs for over 450 farmers in collaboration with training institutions and in-house capacity building resources. The training emphasizes water conservation, modern farming practices, technological awareness, and various agronomic techniques. The project encompasses coordination with government programs and banks, facilitating holistic development, including the formation and empowerment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with members participating in training sessions covering activities such as soap making, stitching, and candle making.
