Bengaluru: Years before Moody’s recent warning about India’s vulnerability to water scarcity, which poses a critical threat to the nation’s economic stability and credit rating, The Art of Living had taken proactive measures to help mitigate the impending water shortage crisis.
The Art of Living has long recognised the urgency of water conservation
Recognising the severity of India’s water crisis, The Art of Living, under the guidance of the world-renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has dedicated itself over the years to revitalising India’s depleted rivers and tackling the water crisis, through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Through community-driven efforts and simple, yet effective techniques, the organisation focuses on restoring the natural hydrological cycle and enhancing the health of rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs nationwide.
The Art of Living’s River Rejuvenation Project has revitalized over 70 rivers, tributaries, and streams in multiple states, constructing more than 90,000 groundwater recharge structures. This has boosted biodiversity, groundwater levels, and crop production, while also expanding land use, employment, and farmers’ incomes.
A key initiative, the JalTara project, places recharge structures in low-lying arable lands to ensure effective rainwater absorption. This has led to a 14 foot rise in water tables and significant increases in farmer incomes and crop yields.
As per the Central Ground Water Board, areas that were previously critical are now considered safe, thanks to The Art of Living’s initiatives. This underscores the importance of sustainable water management, especially in the face of economic growth and climate change.
Looking ahead, The Art of Living aims to expand its water conservation projects to cover the entire nation. Donations to their cause can significantly impact India’s water future, ensuring economic stability and agricultural productivity.
