Ambuja Cements transforms water availability for arid Marwar Mundwa, boosts farmers’ incomes with sustainable initiatives: Study

Rajasthan, 09^th July 2024: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, has completely transformed the water availability scenario for farming communities near its site at Marwar Mundwa, Rajasthan. This is revealed in an impact assessment study on its CSR efforts towards Water Resource Management (WRM) initiatives in the region, including reviving traditional water structures, implementing rooftop rainwater harvesting, and promoting micro-irrigation techniques.

Ambuja Cements’ CSR arm identified the chronic water scarcity in the arid region of Marwar Mundwa and has been undertaking various high-impact initiatives since 2019. As per the study by Taru Leading Edge Pvt Ltd, more than 95% of the respondents from the area have stated that after the CSR interventions, their financial burden as well as time spent to procure drinking water have significantly reduced.

The rooftop rainwater harvesting systems introduced by CSR teams ensure regular access to safe drinking water for 9 to 11 months, with over 80% no longer facing acute water shortages, while also drastically reducing their healthcare expenses. Further, introduction to micro-irrigation techniques including drip and sprinkler has resulted in farmers registering 70% water usage reduction, saving up to Rs 700 per bigha of cultivated land.

Not only has the improved water supply scenario boosted crop production, but also encouraged farmers to expand their area under irrigation, diversify their crops with, obtain multiple crops in a year, and strengthen their climate resilience. This has ultimately had a significant positive economic impact. About 94% of the respondents noted improved livelihoods from farming and other sources thanks to the CSR interventions.

These highly effective CSR initiatives have positively influenced the overall water ecosystem, contributing to sustainable groundwater recharge, the study noted. Ambuja Cements strives to secure a resilient future for generations to come, ensuring the preservation of vital water resources, through sustainable practices and advanced techniques.