BENGALURU (India CSR): Herbalife India, a leading name in health and wellness, has been awarded the prestigious IIT Madras CSR Award 2024 for its impactful CSR initiative, AQUAECO. This recognition highlights the company’s innovative approach to creating sustainable community impacts through technology-driven solutions.
The award was presented during the IIT Madras CSR Summit, themed “Viksit Bharat 2047 – Driving Inclusive Transformative Impact through Tech-enabled CSR.” The event was graced by Dr. T. R. B. Rajaa, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce.
1. AQUAECO: Transforming Aquatic Farming
The AQUAECO initiative, supported by Herbalife India in collaboration with the Centre for Aquatic Livelihoods (Jaljeevika), has redefined aquaculture. By converting underutilized water bodies into sustainable resources, it has created opportunities for marginalized communities.
Using advanced technology such as IoT-based water quality monitoring, AI-powered chatbots, and digital tools, AQUAECO supports fisheries planning and ensures real-time water quality checks. This enables farmers to adopt efficient and profitable practices.
“This project is a testament to our belief in leveraging technology for impactful solutions,” said Uday Prakash, VP of Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife India. “AQUAECO not only improves livelihoods but also fosters economic growth in underserved areas.”
2. Empowering Communities Through Technology
Aligned with government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), AQUAECO operates in regions such as Bihar, Bundelkhand, Konkan, and Karnataka.
The initiative has directly benefited 10,000 farmers, including 2,500 women, while engaging over 50 women self-help groups (SHGs) and 10 fisheries cooperatives. By integrating community participation with technology, AQUAECO has empowered over 50,000 individuals, promoting equitable growth and sustainability.
“We thank our implementation partner, Jaljeevika, for making this initiative a success,” Prakash added. “This recognition motivates us to continue driving impactful programs that empower communities nationwide.”
3. Recognition for Sustained Impact
The IIT Madras CSR Award acknowledges Herbalife India’s efforts to implement scalable solutions for social change. The award ceremony celebrated the integration of innovation and social responsibility, placing Herbalife India at the forefront of transformative CSR initiatives.
Dr. T. R. B. Rajaa lauded the efforts, stating, “Initiatives like AQUAECO showcase how technology can drive inclusive growth. Such programs are pivotal in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.”
4. Herbalife India’s Broader CSR Vision
Beyond AQUAECO, Herbalife India has consistently championed initiatives promoting nutrition, education, and community empowerment. Its programs focus on enhancing health and wellness, creating fair economic opportunities, and protecting the environment.
The company has also been active in awareness campaigns to address malnutrition and improve access to education for underserved communities. These efforts reflect Herbalife India’s holistic approach to fostering sustainable development.
“We remain committed to integrating innovation with purpose,” said Prakash. “Herbalife India aims to create long-lasting impacts that go beyond immediate results, ensuring a better future for communities.”
Herbalife India’s AQUAECO initiative stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how technology and community engagement can transform lives and contribute to a sustainable and inclusive future.
(India CSR)
