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Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Development in Maharashtra

Service & Social Programs | Published: | 3 min read


Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Development in Maharashtra  

Art of Living Foundation collaborates with the Maharashtra government. Aims to tackle agricultural distress and water scarcity. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar honored with the Peace Award at the Global Peace Honours event organized by Divyaj Foundation.

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Art of Living and Maharashtra Government Sign MoUs

In a significant step towards environmental sustainability and agricultural improvement, the Art of Living Foundation, under the guidance of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has joined hands with the Maharashtra government. This collaboration was marked by the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), witnessed by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and other dignitaries.

MoU with Maha govt for water conservation and agriculture

The first MoU, signed at a prominent hotel in South Mumbai, underscores a shared commitment to promoting ‘natural farming’ practices across 1.3 million hectares in Maharashtra. This initiative, championed by the Art of Living Foundation and supported by the state government, aims to create a sustainable agricultural environment that benefits both farmers and consumers. The foundation’s experience in training over 2.2 million farmers nationwide in natural farming techniques is a cornerstone of this ambitious project.

A Vision for Water Conservation

The second MoU focuses on the implementation of Jalyukta Shivir Abhiyaan 2.0, a project aimed at addressing water scarcity in 85 tehsils across 24 districts of Maharashtra. This initiative, part of the collaborative effort, seeks to transform the state into a drought-free region through comprehensive water conservation measures. The Art of Living Foundation’s prior successes in river rejuvenation projects, such as the revitalization of the Tavarja and Gharni rivers in Latur, serve as a model for this endeavor.

Honoring a Global Peace Leader

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Awarded at Global Peace Honours

In a ceremony that paralleled these significant MoU signings, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was honored with the Peace Award at the ‘Global Peace Honours’ event. Held against the majestic backdrop of the Gateway of India, the event saw Gurudev being recognized for his global efforts in fostering peace and harmony. Dignitaries and celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan and Tiger Shroff, were present to celebrate Gurudev’s contributions, especially his role in healing communities post the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

Engaging with the Community

Amidst these landmark events, Gurudev also dedicated time to interact with Art of Living volunteers and teachers in Mumbai. The event also witnessed the launch of the official Marathi YouTube channel of the Art of Living.

Teachers meet in Mumbai Nov 2023

Marathi YouTube launch

Gurudev’s visit also included interactions with local community leaders, social influencers and celebrities.

During the Centenary celebrations of the Asthika Samaj temple in Matunga, Gurudev performed the Poornahuthi and delivered an Anugraha Bhashanam at the Vishwa Shanti Maha Yagnam ceremony. His presence attracted thousands of devotees. The temple trustees thanked Gurudev for his significant contribution to the ceremony.

Centenary celebrations of the Asthika Samaj temple in Matunga

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