Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has taken a significant step towards sustainable development by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR). This partnership will kick off Project JeevanDhara, aimed at improving rural living conditions through comprehensive watershed management in the drought-affected Aurad Taluk, located in Bidar District, Karnataka.
The agreement was formalized by Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Senior Vice President, and Roshan, General Manager of TKM, during a ceremony in Aurad Taluk. This initiative will encompass 9 villages and cover 5,322.34 hectares, directly impacting 11,026 residents from 2,063 households, addressing urgent socio-economic and environmental issues in the area.
Aurad Taluk experiences severe drought, with an average annual rainfall of just 800 mm. Over 80% of the land is degraded, groundwater levels are declining, and less than 7% of the area is irrigated. Consequently, many families rely on rain-fed, single-crop agriculture, leading to migration in search of better opportunities. The project aims to improve water security and promote sustainable agricultural practices by enhancing soil moisture and ensuring a steady water supply throughout the year.
By implementing climate-resilient farming techniques, it seeks to support long-term crop productivity while introducing targeted livelihood initiatives to uplift marginalized families. Additionally, the project focuses on strengthening local community institutions to ensure the sustainable management of natural resources over time.
To achieve these objectives, the initiative will include the construction of check dams, gabions, and other water conservation structures to recharge groundwater and expand irrigation capacity. Measures to control soil erosion and enhance moisture retention will also be implemented to improve land productivity.
Beyond agriculture, the project will encourage diverse livelihood opportunities by supporting activities like dairy and poultry farming, as well as non-farm ventures such as tailoring, ensuring economic stability for rural communities. Project JeevanDhara employs a ridge-to-valley strategy for soil and water conservation, emphasizing ecological restoration, sustainable agriculture, and improved livelihoods. Engagement with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Village Development Committees (VDCs) will ensure local involvement throughout the initiative, fostering ownership and enhancing the project’s chances for success and sustainability.
Sudeep Dalvi commented, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we are committed to fostering sustainable change in line with our global vision of ‘Creating Sustainable Societies.’ Project JeevanDhara represents a vital initiative to tackle the challenges in Aurad Taluk, where water scarcity and soil degradation have profoundly affected livelihoods. By collaborating with WOTR and local communities, we aim to deliver comprehensive solutions that improve water access, bolster agricultural resilience, and empower families with sustainable livelihood opportunities. We believe that partnerships like this can generate lasting impact, transforming the lives of over 11,000 individuals and establishing a model for sustainable rural development. We are proud to contribute to a more resilient and inclusive future for everyone.”
Project JeevanDhara is poised to revitalize the local ecosystem, strengthen agricultural resilience, and significantly enhance the quality of life for the community. By merging environmental responsibility with socio-economic progress, TKM is setting new standards for sustainable rural development and reaffirming its commitment to generating lasting value for society.
