AHMEDABAD (India CSR): UPL, as part its “Inclusive Development and Growth” thematic focus area, in partnership with Gram Panchayat, continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable development through impactful projects in Talodra and Dadheda villages in Gujarat. These initiatives focus on preserving natural resources while fostering community engagement.
Rainwater Conservation and Tree Plantation in Talodra Village
Under this initiative, UPL is developing a 11-acre pond in Talodra village to enhance rainwater conservation and promote sustainability. As part of this effort, a tree plantation drive was conducted along the pond’s boundary, with 100 trees planted to boost biodiversity and foster a greener ecosystem. The event was graced by Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, R.D. Jadeja, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Bharuch, Ms. Meena, Range Forest Officer (Wildlife), Jhagadia, R. S. Rahaveer, Range Forest Officer (Social Forestry), Jhagadia, Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia and Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL Ltd. The pond is being transformed with walkways and seating, creating a space for both environmental and community benefit.
Pond Development and Community Engagement in Dadheda
Similarly, in Dadheda, UPL is developing a 2.5-acre pond to enhance water conservation and support sustainable development. The project includes deepening the pond to optimize rainwater harvesting, benefiting local agriculture and replenishing groundwater resources. To engage the community and highlight the importance of collective action in conserving natural resources, a friendly cricket match was organized to promote community engagement. The event brought together local teams in a spirited competition and was attended by dignitaries such as Police Inspector Rathod, GIDC Police Station, and Aakash Vasava, Assistant Engineer, Notified Area Authority, GIDC Jhagadia, and Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia.
UPL’s Commitment to Sustainability
Speaking about the initiative, Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL, said, “At UPL, our objective is to drive sustainable and positive change within society through responsible practices. Inclusive Development and Growth is at the heart of our community initiatives. By developing ponds, planting trees, and promoting ecological balance, we are committed to restoring natural resources and enhancing community well-being. These efforts empower rural communities to become stewards of their environment, aligning with our vision for a greener, more resilient future for all.”
Recognition of Public-Private Partnerships
Encouraging the localities, Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, said, “The work being done by UPL in Dadheda and Talodra sets a great example of how public-private partnerships can address critical needs like water conservation and biodiversity. These initiatives will have a lasting impact on both the environment and the well-being of the community.”
Achievements in Conservation and Ecosystem Restoration
In addition to these, UPL has made significant strides in protecting and restoring ecosystems through various conservation efforts. The Sarus Conservation Project has seen a remarkable 186% increase in the crane population, rising to 1,431 in 2023-24 from 500 in 2015-16. In 2023-24, over 132 vultures were documented in Khambhat, Gujarat. UPL has also planted over 2,10,255 trees in different areas of Gujarat and 4.17 lakh mangrove saplings across 200 acres of the coastal belt in Vagra Taluka, Dahej, Gujarat. In the last five years, 20+ water conservation structures have been built, conserving approximately 24 lakh cubic meters of water. UPL has also established 125 eco-clubs in schools, involving over 5,400 members and sensitizing 17,000+ students to environmental protection.
These efforts reflect UPL’s dedication to environment conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that communities thrive alongside a healthier ecosystem.
(India CSR)
