The Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a prominent Indian conglomerate in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, has been awarded the prestigious Water Positive certification by GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment). This recognition places DS Group among a limited number of companies in the country with a Water Positivity Index above 1.5 — with DS Group achieving an index of 1.80.
The certification follows an extensive assessment carried out over two and a half years, spanning 30 operational sites across the country. This achievement reflects DS Group’s long-term commitment to water conservation and sustainable resource management.
Through a combination of rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, recharge systems, and ecological restoration, DS Group has created a total water storage potential of 66 lakh kilolitres. These efforts are embedded in both its internal operations and community programs, forming a holistic model of water stewardship. The company’s verticals — including its food and beverage, mouth freshener, hospitality, and agriculture businesses — have all been integrated into this sustainability initiative.
Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of DS Group, emphasized the urgency of such measures “Global water demand is on track to exceed supply by 40% by 2030. At DS Group, we’ve taken proactive steps to address this challenge by integrating water stewardship into every layer of our business. Our Water Positive status is not just a certification — it’s a testament to our long-standing responsibility to both people and the planet.”
He further added, “We don’t view sustainability as a short-term initiative — it’s a permanent commitment. Guided by our ethos of ‘Create What is Worth Creating,’ we will continue our efforts to restore ecosystems, replenish resources, and create long-term value for future generations.”
The GRIHA Council commended the Group’s achievement. Sanjay Seth, Vice President and CEO of GRIHA Council and Senior Director at TERI, said “DS Group has demonstrated how industry can lead in sustainable water management. This Water Positive certification is more than a milestone — it’s a signal to the broader business community that environmental responsibility and operational success can go hand in hand.”
Beyond its internal efforts, DS Group’s water program actively involves its employees, suppliers, and consumers. Conservation efforts range from grassroots-level community projects to technological upgrades in production facilities. This inclusive model strengthens water security not only for DS Group’s operations but also for the regions in which it operates.
The Water Positive certification is part of the Group’s broader sustainability journey, which includes initiatives in energy efficiency, agriculture, livelihoods, and community development. These programs are designed to deliver measurable environmental and social outcomes while aligning with India’s sustainability goals and global climate action frameworks.
GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) was formed in 2007 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, and TERI. It offers a comprehensive rating system for evaluating the environmental performance of buildings in India, with a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and resource conservation.
Founded in 1929, the DS Group is one of India’s foremost FMCG and multi-business conglomerates. With a diverse portfolio that spans food and beverages, mouth fresheners, luxury retail, hospitality, agri-business, and more, the Group is known for popular brands like Catch, Pulse, Rajnigandha, Pass Pass, and L’Opera. Sustainability, innovation, and community development are core to the company’s values, reflected in its LEED Platinum and LEED Zero Carbon certifications for its corporate headquarters.
