New initiative focuses on water resource management, sustainable agriculture, reforestation, and empowering local communities to address climate resilience

American Express, in collaboration with Safe Water Network, has introduced Program Vasundhara, a three-year initiative aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation in Bengaluru and Gurugram. The program, which is aligned with India’s climate and sustainability goals, seeks to empower local communities, restore ecosystems, and foster sustainable development practices in these key regions.

Aims to Address Local Environmental Challenges

Program Vasundhara will focus on critical environmental areas including water resource management, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. In Bengaluru, the program will address local water scarcity by constructing an 18-million-liter rainwater harvesting structure around the Aivarakhandapura Lake, significantly improving local water availability and reducing dependency on external sources.

In Gurugram, the program will spearhead reforestation and ecosystem restoration in the Aravalli region, with plans to plant 15,000 trees and restore 10,000 hectares of land. This will not only increase green cover but also bolster local biodiversity and enhance climate resilience. Additionally, solar-powered solutions will be introduced in public areas to reduce carbon emissions and promote the use of renewable energy.

Empowering Communities through Sustainable Livelihoods

One of the key elements of Program Vasundhara is its focus on empowering local communities, especially women, through sustainable livelihoods and eco-friendly enterprises. The initiative plans to train nearly 1,000 women from 85 villages to launch small businesses focused on agriculture and conservation. These women will receive resources to grow and market medicinal plants, as well as process agricultural products, with support from self-help groups (SHGs). Moreover, the program will connect them with financial support from government schemes, banks, and cooperatives.

Commitment to Climate Resilience and Biodiversity

Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability at American Express, emphasized the program’s alignment with climate resilience and sustainable ecosystems. “Program Vasundhara exemplifies our commitment to climate resilience and biodiversity. Through our partnership with Safe Water Network, we’re creating lasting impact by fostering local engagement and education,” said Thomas.

The program also includes adaptive climate action measures, such as energy-efficient solutions and capacity-building training for local stakeholders to ensure long-term conservation practices. By restoring urban and peri-urban ecosystems, Program Vasundhara aims to enhance local food systems, water sources, and the availability of medicinal plants, thus improving the livelihoods of community members.

A Model for Future Conservation Efforts

Program Vasundhara is being hailed as a model for corporate-supported biodiversity efforts and is expected to play a vital role in India’s climate action initiatives, including the Mission Lifestyle for Environment ( LiFE ). Poonam Sewak, Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at Safe Water Network, praised the program’s potential, stating, “This initiative shows the profound impact of community-driven conservation and ecological restoration, paving the way for sustainable livelihoods and environmental stewardship for generations to come.”

Through its comprehensive approach, Program Vasundhara aims to leave a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the communities of Bengaluru and Gurugram, setting a powerful example for similar efforts nationwide and globally.