CSR initiative in partnership with Telangana Government and Dhruvansh NGO focuses on biodiversity revival, lake rejuvenation, and community engagement.
Hyderabad, 11 August 2025: Gemini Edible & Fats India Limited (GEF India), makers of Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, organised a ‘Van Mahotsavam’ at Kotha Cheruvu, Kokapet, as part of its ongoing CSR initiative to restore and rejuvenate the lake. The programme, held in collaboration with the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), Telangana Social Impact Group/T-SIG (CSR Wing of the Telangana Government), and Dhruvansh NGO, saw the plantation of medicinal trees to enhance the green cover and improve the landscape around the waterbody.
The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Mr. T. Prakash Goud, MLA Rajendranagar, in the presence of Mr. T. Krishna Mohan Reddy, Commissioner, Narsingi Municipality; Ms. Archana Suresh, Director, TSIG; Mr. Krishna Rao, Lake Protection Cell; Mr. Akshay Chowdhry, Group Vice President, GEF India; Mr. P. Chandrashekhara Reddy, Sr. Vice President – Sales and Marketing, GEF India; and Ms. Madhulika Choudhary of Dhruvansh, along with other dignitaries.
The gathering also reviewed the progress achieved under Phase I of the lake restoration project. Once severely affected by rapid urbanisation, pollution, and weed infestation, Kotha Cheruvu has seen notable improvements in water quality and biodiversity following interventions such as garbage and weed removal, corner desilting, bund rectification, and installation of solar floating aerators and floating treatment wetlands. Infrastructure upgrades have included the construction of a gated entrance, visitor seating, toilets, storage, a security guard room, solar-powered surveillance cameras, and educational boards to promote lake preservation.
Mr. Prakash Goud highlighted the visible revival of bird diversity and flora, noting that “the water quality has shown marked improvement and the local ecosystem is steadily coming back to life.” Commissioner T. Krishna Mohan Reddy commended the timely execution of works and urged local residents to actively protect the lake post-restoration.
Speaking on GEF India’s commitment, Mr. Akshay Chowdhry said, “We are proud to support initiatives that safeguard vital natural resources for future generations while encouraging sustainable growth.” Sr. VP P. Chandrashekhara Reddy reiterated that environmental responsibility is embedded in the company’s philosophy, citing their zero liquid discharge manufacturing plants in Kakinada and Krishnapatnam as an example.
Ms. Archana Suresh of T-SIG described the project as “a model of long-term public-private partnership,” underscoring the collaboration between the government, corporate sector, and civil society.
GEF India continues to advance sustainability-focused CSR projects, including its earlier contribution to the Freedom Park initiative promoting urban green spaces. The company remains dedicated to environmental stewardship and community welfare, ensuring that today’s actions help secure a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem for future generations.
About GEF India:
Gemini Edible & Fats India Limited is a leading edible oil company in South India, best known for its Freedom range of healthy cooking oils. Through its CSR initiatives, GEF India actively supports projects that enhance environmental sustainability and community well-being.
