Schaeffler India, a leading motion technology company, has been honoured with the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management 2024–25 for its flagship CSR initiative, Jal Samruddhi, under the “Beyond the Fence” category. The award recognises impactful, community-focused projects that enhance water security, improve livelihoods, and foster socio-economic development at the watershed level.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) presents this prestigious award annually to organisations demonstrating exemplary water stewardship and sustainable community development. Schaeffler India’s recognition underscores its commitment to creating meaningful environmental and social impact beyond its operational boundaries.
Schaeffler India’s Jal Samruddhi Project, implemented in partnership with the BAIF Development Research Foundation, has transformed water-scarce regions of Wakalwadi and Gosasi villages in Rajgurunagar block, Pune district. Spanning July 2021 to December 2023, the project adopted an integrated watershed management approach to address acute water scarcity, low agricultural productivity, and livelihood instability.
Key highlights of the initiative include:
- 143,000 cubic meters of water conservation potential created through water absorption trenches, recharge ponds, gabions, and boulder structures
- 1,268 acres of land treated to reduce soil erosion and improve moisture retention
- 40% improvement in cropping intensity and significant gains in agricultural yield
- 84% of households reporting enhanced water access
- Household income increases from ₹60,312 to ₹1,06,938 on average
- 70% reduction in tanker-water dependency
Through soil and water conservation, agricultural development, micro-irrigation support, and the promotion of sustainable farming practices, Jal Samruddhi has enabled more than 400 rural families to transition toward water security, resilience, and improved quality of life.
Ms. Shibi Mathew, Head of HR and CSR, Schaeffler India, stated, “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.”
A Model for Scalable, Sustainable Impact
The impact of Jal Samruddhi has been validated through an independent assessment by Sattva Consulting, reinforcing the initiative’s success in delivering measurable improvements in water availability, soil health, agriculture, and household income. The project aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals while demonstrating a best-practice model that can be replicated across other water-stressed regions.
Schaeffler India is already extending this approach to its aspirational CSR geographies in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, strengthening its long-term commitment to community development and environmental sustainability.
