The S M Sehgal Foundation (SMSF), a nonprofit organization established by Indian-American scientist and philanthropist Dr. Surinder Mohan Sehgal and Edda Sehgal, has been awarded the esteemed 5th annual National Water Award 2024 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti in India. Recognized in the Best Civil Society category, SMSF was commended for its innovative contributions to water management, particularly in addressing the pressing issue of water scarcity in rural India. The foundation implements effective and affordable strategies for rainwater harvesting, groundwater replenishment, the restoration of traditional water bodies, and enhancing access to safe drinking water. These efforts are further supported by initiatives aimed at promoting behavioral changes related to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), thereby fostering a sustainable future for water resources in rural areas. The award ceremony was graced by the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, with cabinet minister C R Patil and various water ministers and state secretaries presenting the awards at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.
A comprehensive review of over 600 applications across nine distinct categories culminated in the selection of 38 organizations for awards and special mentions. This recognition coincides with a significant milestone for SMSF, which recently marked its 25th anniversary at its environmentally friendly campus in Gurugram. Established in 1999 as a public charitable trust, SMSF has positively impacted lives in 13 states and more than 12,700 villages, benefiting approximately 5.27 million individuals. The foundation’s initiatives focus on vital areas such as water security, food security, and community-driven development, while also striving to enhance agricultural practices and educational outcomes for children in rural India. In addition to receiving the National Water Award, the foundation was honored with a Fortune Leadership Award this week in the “Most Trusted NGO” category. Anjali Makhija, Trustee and CEO of SMSF, dedicated these accolades to the organization’s partners and the rural communities it serves, expressing that this recognition will motivate SMSF to further amplify its efforts in the field.
