The Dharampal Satyapal (DS) Group, a multifaceted conglomerate with a significant presence in India and internationally, has a legacy of commitment to quality and innovation since its founding in 1929. Among its numerous impactful endeavours, the water conservation initiatives by DS Group are a remarkable testament to its dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development.
A Strategic Approach to Water Conservation
Recognising the critical importance of water for sustainable development, the DS Group has embarked on a mission to ensure the long-term availability of water through targeted conservation measures and judicious resource utilisation. Their comprehensive water conservation projects, in collaboration with grassroots organisations, span Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat. These initiatives benefit millions of people from marginalised communities by addressing local water challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
Key Projects and Their Impact
Water Economic Zones in Udaipur
Launched in 2018, the “Creation of Water Economic Zones” project focuses on enhancing natural resources, particularly water and soil, to boost productivity in Udaipur’s Alsigarh and Kurabad watershed areas. Partnering with Mahan Seva Sansthan and Arpan Seva Sansthan, the project reaches over 23,000 people from 26 villages, primarily from tribal backgrounds, covering around 11,000 hectares. The project has developed a water storage and recharge capacity of about 21,52,931 cubic meters by constructing 311 water and soil conservation structures, including mini percolation tanks, check dams and recharge pits.
Rejuvenation of Community Ponds in Chhatarpur
The DS Group has partnered with Haritrika to rejuvenate community ponds in Jakhron and Bijaypur villages in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. This initiative aims to improve groundwater levels through recharge and restoration, promoting water-efficient farming practices. Benefiting around 2,000 marginalised individuals, the project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and significantly provide sustainable livelihoods.
Construction of Stop Dam in Jhabua
In collaboration with Arpan Seva Sansthan, the DS Group has constructed a stop dam in Gopalpura village, Jhabua district, Madhya Pradesh. This project addresses the area’s severe water scarcity, benefiting around 200 families by providing potable water and supporting agricultural activities.
Revival of Community Ponds in Khandwa
Partnering with Arpan Seva Sansthan, the DS Group has rejuvenated community ponds in Barudchhaigaonmakhan block, Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to improve groundwater levels and promote efficient water use in farming, benefiting approximately 350 families.
Construction of Check Dams in Shrawasti
In the Sirsiya block of Shrawasti district, Uttar Pradesh, the DS Group has constructed four check dams in collaboration with Manav Vikas Sanstha. This project benefits over 600 households by improving agricultural productivity through groundwater recharge and enhancing sustainable income generation opportunities.
Revival of Community Ponds in Mahoba
Since 2016, the DS Group has revived four community ponds in Bundelkhand’s drought-affected areas in Uttar Pradesh. The bund improvement and de-siltation activities have increased water storage by approximately 77,000 cubic meters, benefiting more than 6,000 people. Around 195 farmers have also constructed farm ponds, creating a cumulative storage capacity of over 400,000 cubic meters and irrigating around 127 hectares of land.
Construction of Drinking Water Structures in Kutch
In collaboration with Water Harvest and Samerth Charitable Trust, the DS Group is constructing 27 ponds, four wells, 225 roof rainwater harvesting structures (RRWHSs) at the household level, and one roof rainwater harvesting structure in a school in the Kutch region. This three-year project aims to reach over 500 households across seven villages and 10 hamlets, addressing the significant water challenges in the area.
Spring Recharge and Rejuvenation in Nainital and Kullu
The DS Group has partnered with the Central Himalayan Rural Action Group (CHIRAG) to revive springs in the Dhari block of Nainital district, Uttarakhand, and Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. These projects involve hydrogeological studies, conservation of recharge zones, and building community institutions to sustain the interventions. The rejuvenation of these springs, the primary water sources for the regions, benefits more than 1,500 inhabitants by providing additional water for drinking and agriculture.
Final Word
The DS Group’s water conservation projects exemplify their CSR and sustainable development commitment. Through innovative and strategic interventions, the DS Group has significantly improved water availability, agricultural productivity, and the economic conditions of marginalised communities across various states. By focusing on geography-specific conservation measures and promoting efficient resource utilisation, the DS Group continues to pave the way for a sustainable future, reinforcing its legacy of quality and innovation.
