Schaeffler India has been honored with the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management 2024-25 for its Jal Samruddhi initiative, the company announced on December 4, 2025.
The award, presented by the Confederation of Indian Industry, recognizes the company's work under the "Beyond the Fence" category, which highlights community-focused efforts that improve water security and support socio-economic development.
The Jal Samruddhi Project was implemented in Wakalwadi and Gosasi villages in Rajgurunagar block, Pune district, between July 2021 and December 2023. Schaeffler India partnered with BAIF Development Research Foundation to address water scarcity, low agricultural productivity, and livelihood challenges in the region.
The initiative created 143,000 cubic meters of water conservation potential through infrastructure including water absorption trenches, recharge ponds, gabions, and boulder structures. The project treated 1,268 acres of land to reduce soil erosion and improve moisture retention.
According to the company, the project resulted in a 40% improvement in cropping intensity and increased household income from ₹60,312 to ₹1,06,938 on average. Additionally, 84% of households reported enhanced water access, while dependency on tanker water decreased by 70%.
More than 400 rural families benefited from the project through soil and water conservation, agricultural development, micro-irrigation support, and sustainable farming practices.
Shibi Mathew, Head of HR and CSR at Schaeffler India, said the company views water security as fundamental to building resilient communities. She noted that the recognition reinforces the company's commitment to expanding similar initiatives across the country.
An independent assessment by Sattva Consulting validated the project's impact on water availability, soil health, agriculture, and household income. Schaeffler India is extending the watershed management approach to its CSR geographies in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
The Pune-based motion technology company operates five manufacturing plants in India, three R&D centers, and seven sales offices, employing over 3,700 people nationwide.