Mumbai: During World Water Week 2023, PepsiCo India along with partner Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI), today launched its Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) program in Uttar Pradesh. As part of its ‘Winning with pep+’ philosophy, Government of Uttar Pradesh minister of sugarcane development and sugar industry Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, and PepsiCo India president Ahmed ElSheikh inaugurated one of the seven community rainwater harvesting ponds, located in Puthari, Chatta Tehsil, Mathura.
Actress and member of Lok Sabha, Mathura constituency Hema Malini appreciated PepsiCo India’s initiative through a video message. Director DCB - Mathura Nardev Chaudhary, and ADI managing director Rajinder Nijjar were also present.
The comprehensive water resource development strategy aims at replenishing 100 per cent water used in the manufacturing operations and improving the health of local watersheds that are most at risk. Under the project, seven community rainwater harvesting ponds with a groundwater recharge potential of 214 million litres have already been constructed, enabling groundwater recharge in seven neighboring villages.
Speaking at the occasion, Government of Uttar Pradesh minister of sugarcane development and sugar industry Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary 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.”
Actress and member of Parliament, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh Smt. Hema Malini 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, PepsiCo India president Ahmed ElSheikh 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.”
Alternative Development Initiatives managing director Rajinder Nijjar 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.”
As part of this initiative, PepsiCo India, and Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI) have also been conducting training programs for over 450 farmers with the help of various training institutions and in house capacity building facilities. The training focuses on the need of water conservation and management, modern farming and modern technology awareness, and several other agronomic practices. The project includes convergence with government programs and banks for holistic development including formation and empowerment of SHGs across the project area with over 40 members undertaking trainings including soap making, stitching and candle making.
