CSR initiative rejuvenates three water bodies, creating 79 million litres of storage capacity to benefit over 3,200 agriculture-dependent residents
Satara, September 2025: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank (Ujjivan SFB) announced the successful completion of its Water Conservation Reassure 2.0 project, an environmental initiative that has restored three critical water bodies in Bavada village, Satara district, Maharashtra. The project addresses chronic water scarcity issues faced by more than 3,200+ residents who rely primarily on agriculture for their livelihoods.
The rural community of Bavada has historically struggled with severe water shortages lasting five to six months annually, leading to groundwater depletion and restricted irrigation capabilities. This water crisis has limited farmers to a single cropping cycle per year, resulting in reduced agricultural productivity, lower incomes, and widespread disguised unemployment.
Commenting on this initiative, Martin P S, Chief Operating Officer, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, said, “Water is the lifeline of rural communities, especially for agricultural regions like Bavada village. Through our Water Conservation Reassure 2.0 project, we have not only restored vital water infrastructure but also created sustainable pathways for enhanced agricultural productivity and improved livelihoods. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment, ensuring that over 3,200+ residents now have access to reliable water resources throughout the year.”
With improved water availability, farmers in Bavada can now grow multiple crops through the year, diversify production, and increase yields. This development has provided more stable livelihoods for farming families and supported the local agricultural economy. The additional cropping cycles address the economic constraints that previously limited income opportunities and contributed to seasonal unemployment patterns in the region.
The project reflects the value of coordinated partnership in community development. With financial support from NAB Foundation and on-ground execution by Vanrai, the initiative has delivered practical and lasting results. The collaborative approach provides a model that can be adapted for water conservation and rural development initiatives in other regions. Muskan Singh
