Schaeffler India, a leading motion technology company, has been honoured at the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management 2024–25 for its flagship CSR programme, Jal Samruddhi. The recognition was conferred under the “Beyond the Fence” category, which celebrates impactful community-oriented initiatives that improve water security, strengthen livelihoods and foster socio-economic development at the watershed level.

Organised annually by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the National Award for Excellence in Water Management is regarded as one of the country’s most respected platforms for acknowledging exemplary contributions to water stewardship and sustainable rural development.

Implemented in partnership with the BAIF Development Research Foundation, Schaeffler India’s Jal Samruddhi project has transformed water-scarce regions in the Wakalwadi and Gosasi villages of Rajgurunagar block, Pune district. Undertaken between July 2021 and December 2023, the initiative employed an integrated watershed management approach to tackle severe water shortages, low agricultural productivity and livelihood instability.

The programme delivered several measurable outcomes, including the creation of 143,000 cubic metres of water conservation potential through recharge ponds, water absorption trenches, gabion structures and boulder installations. A total of 1,268 acres of land were treated to reduce soil erosion and enhance moisture retention. The project led to a 40 per cent rise in cropping intensity, substantial gains in agricultural yield and improved water access for 84 per cent of households. Average annual household income increased from Rs 60,312 to Rs 1,06,938, alongside a 70 per cent reduction in dependence on tanker water.

Through a combination of soil and water conservation, micro-irrigation support, sustainable farming practices and agriculture-focused interventions, Jal Samruddhi has empowered more than 400 rural families to build resilience, achieve water security and improve their overall quality of life.

Commenting on the achievement, Shibi Mathew, Head of HR and CSR at Schaeffler India, said: “We are honoured to receive the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management. At Schaeffler India, we believe that enabling water security is fundamental to building resilient communities. The Jal Samruddhi initiative showcases our commitment to driving meaningful change beyond our operations—through science-led watershed development, community participation and a long-term focus on sustainable livelihoods. This recognition further strengthens our resolve to expand such impact-driven initiatives across the country.”

The initiative’s effectiveness has been independently validated by Sattva Consulting, demonstrating significant improvements in water availability, soil health, agriculture and household income. Aligning with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, Jal Samruddhi serves as a scalable model for regions facing chronic water stress.

Schaeffler India is now extending this approach to its broader CSR geographies in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, reaffirming its long-term commitment to sustainable community development and environmental stewardship.