Schaeffler India, a key player in motion technology, has been honoured at the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management 2024–25 for its flagship CSR programme, Jal Samruddhi, in the “Beyond the Fence” category. This recognition celebrates community-focused interventions that improve water security, boost livelihoods, and promote sustainable development at the watershed level. Presented by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the award is regarded as one of the country’s most credible platforms for acknowledging leadership in water stewardship.
Implemented in collaboration with the BAIF Development Research Foundation, Jal Samruddhi has brought meaningful transformation to the water-stressed villages of Wakalwadi and Gosasi in Rajgurunagar block, Pune. Running from July 2021 to December 2023, the project used an integrated watershed model to tackle severe water shortages, low farm productivity, and income instability. Major outcomes include the creation of 143,000 cubic metres of water conservation capacity, treatment of 1,268 acres to curb erosion, a 40% rise in cropping intensity, improved agricultural output, 84% of homes reporting better water availability, a rise in average household income from ₹60,312 to ₹1,06,938, and a 70% drop in dependence on tanker water.
By combining soil and water conservation measures with agricultural improvement, micro-irrigation assistance, and sustainable farming techniques, the initiative has helped over 400 rural families progress toward long-term water security and economic resilience. Commenting on the recognition, Shibi Mathew, Head of HR and CSR at Schaeffler India, said the award underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening communities through scientific watershed development and participatory, livelihood-focused interventions.
An independent evaluation by Sattva Consulting has validated the project’s measurable gains in water availability, soil health, crop productivity, and income enhancement. Jal Samruddhi aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals and serves as a replicable model for other water-deprived regions. Schaeffler India is already extending this framework to its CSR focus areas in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, reinforcing its long-term dedication to sustainable community development and environmental stewardship.
The Schaeffler Group has been at the forefront of motion technology innovation for over 75 years, delivering solutions across electric mobility, CO₂-efficient drives, chassis technologies, and renewable energy. With around 110,000 employees and more than 250 sites in 55 countries, it is among the world’s largest family-owned industrial enterprises.
Schaeffler India carries forward this legacy with precision engineering solutions built for efficient and intelligent motion across industries. With five manufacturing facilities, three R&D centres, seven sales offices, and a strong aftermarket presence, the company provides nationwide access to its extensive portfolio, which spans bearing systems, linear motion solutions, repair services, and condition monitoring technologies. With over 3,700 employees and six decades of operations in the country, Schaeffler India remains a leading force in India’s motion technology landscape.
