Video series highlights transformation in Sikar’s drought-prone villages through Amrit Sarovar revival and traditional water system restoration
Mumbai, 12th August 2025: Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation has launched a compelling video series under its ‘Refreshing Difference’ campaign, capturing the stories of resilience and transformation in Rajasthan’s Sikar district. Once plagued by erratic monsoons and high fluoride contamination, the region is now witnessing improved water access, agricultural productivity, and community-led conservation, thanks to a decade-long initiative implemented with Social Action for Rural Advancement (SARA).
The project, focused on reviving traditional water systems, has reached over 18,000 residents in six villages—Rajpura, Balyawas, Karad, Khora, Dungri Khurd, and Chhota Narena. Key interventions include the construction of check dams, pond restoration, and groundwater recharge systems, enabling safe drinking water access, enhanced farming yields, healthier livestock, and restored ecosystems.
Mota Ram, Director of SARA, emphasised the importance of community ownership: “Families contributed money, labour, or land. Women were trained as barefoot engineers and paid equally. Even nine years later, villages continue to maintain and improve these systems on their own.”
Kamlesh Devad, Sarpanch of Laxmipura, shared how check dams have transformed daily life: “Rainwater now stays, recharging wells and ponds. Cattle have a steady water supply, and farmers are seeing better yields. These structures have strengthened our way of life.”
Rajiv Gupta, Director of Anandana, said: “Water is essential for thriving communities. Our interventions in Rajasthan are restoring traditional systems, boosting water security, and supporting agriculture and climate resilience. Through partnerships with organisations like SARA, we are creating sustainable, community-led change.”
Anandana has implemented nearly 20 water conservation projects across 13 cities in Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Ajmer, Tonk, Sikar, and Sawai Madhopur. These efforts form a key part of Coca-Cola India’s broader water stewardship agenda, aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods and ensuring equitable access to safe water in some of India’s most drought-affected regions.
About Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation
Anandana is the philanthropic arm of Coca-Cola India, working to improve community well-being through initiatives in water conservation, education, health, and environmental sustainability. The Foundation collaborates with grassroots partners to drive long-term, impactful change.
1.Kamlesh Devad, a young sarpanch, helped lead the efforts to expand water access across 6 villages:
2. Shravan Lal Ghayal shares how the recharged pond has revived his village’s groundwater and provided water access to local animals:
3. Lala Ram Punya transformed his dry farmland into thriving fields assisted by the check dams:
