Bengaluru: For many decades, The Art of Living, under the guidance of renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has been addressing critical issues affecting the nation’s wellbeing.
The organization focuses on a wide range of initiatives including water conservation, agricultural sustainability, environmental protection, afforestation, rural development, women’s empowerment, skill development, free education, waste management, and renewable energy.
The Art of Living’s efforts have garnered significant recognition. Recently, the organization was honored as the Best NGO of the Year 2024 for its water conservation initiatives at the Global CSR & ESG Awards.
This prestigious award, accepted by Chairman Shri Prasana Prabhu, underscores the collaborative efforts that have driven success and reaffirms the organization’s commitment to achieving water positivity in India.
Additionally, the organization received the Best CSR Impact Award for the JalTara Project at the NGI CSR Summit, highlighting its substantial contributions to environmental and social sustainability.
One of the most pressing challenges in India today is water scarcity. Recognizing this urgency early on, The Art of Living has taken proactive measures to address the crisis. The River Rejuvenation Project has revitalized over 70 rivers and numerous tributaries and streams, positively impacting more than 34.5 million people across 19,000 villages.
By implementing simple yet effective techniques and mobilizing community-driven efforts, the organization is restoring the natural hydrological cycle and enhancing the health of rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs nationwide.
The commitment to agricultural sustainability is evident in the training of over 2.2 million farmers in natural farming techniques. This initiative not only promotes sustainable agricultural practices but also ensures food security and economic stability for farming communities.
Education and skill development are central to the organization’s mission. Free education has been provided to over 100,000 students, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education. Additionally, over 420,000 youth have been empowered with livelihood skills, preparing them for a brighter future and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. Various initiatives have also supported over 110,000 rural women, fostering economic and general empowerment.
Environmental sustainability is another cornerstone of The Art of Living’s efforts. The organization processes over 4.2 million kg of waste annually, contributing to cleaner and healthier communities.
Through the Mission Green Earth initiative, The Art of Living has planted over 9.6 million trees globally, significantly enhancing the planet’s green cover. Hygiene camps conducted have benefited over 90,000 participants, promoting health and wellbeing in communities across the country.
Looking ahead, The Art of Living aims to expand its efforts, implementing water conservation initiatives nationwide to ensure a sustainable future for all. Donations are crucial to accelerating these impactful initiatives. Contributions will help expand water conservation projects, sustain education and skill development programs, empower women, protect the environment, and more. By joining hands, a sustainable and prosperous future can be created for all.
