The third India Water Sustainability Forum 2026, organised by SoulAce at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, brought together CSR, sustainability, corporate and development leaders to discuss how companies can support long-term water security, rural livelihoods and climate resilience.
Held on the theme “Securing Water Resources and the Role of CSR,” the forum featured three panel discussions covering watershed development, water conservation, sustainable livelihoods and climate resilience. Speakers stressed that CSR projects should focus not only on creating infrastructure but also on measurable results, community ownership and long-term maintenance.
Opening the event, Adarsh Kataruka, Managing Director, SoulAce, said, “Water security is closely connected to livelihood security and community resilience. CSR interventions need to look beyond the creation of infrastructure and ask whether water assets are being maintained, whether communities are benefiting economically and whether these interventions are strengthening their ability to cope with future water and climate risks.”
The first panel discussed how watershed programmes can improve agricultural productivity, crop diversification, livestock incomes and local employment. The discussion also highlighted the importance of ensuring benefits reach women, small and marginal farmers and communities facing water stress.
The second panel focused on groundwater recharge, soil and water conservation, pond rejuvenation and community-led maintenance. Participants said the success of such programmes depends on local participation and responsible water use.
The final panel examined ways to prepare communities for climate-related risks such as irregular rainfall, droughts, floods and heat. Water-risk planning, efficient water use and resilient infrastructure were among the key areas discussed.
At the forum, SoulAce also presented a case study of a multi-village watershed project in Maharashtra. The assessment used hydrological analysis, satellite data and field validation to measure changes in groundwater, irrigation access and agricultural outcomes.
SoulAce also launched its “Impact of CSR on Skill Development 2025–26” landscape report, covering more than 100 CSR skill-development initiatives and their impact on employability, livelihoods and income opportunities.
The forum concluded with a focus on long-term partnerships, community ownership and outcome-based CSR programmes.
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