The S M Sehgal Foundation (SMSF), a nonprofit organization founded by Indian-American scientist and philanthropist Dr. Surinder Mohan Sehgal and Edda Sehgal, has been awarded the prestigious 5th annual National Water Award 2024. India’s Ministry of Jal Shakti recognized SMSF in the Best Civil Society category for its influential work in addressing water scarcity across rural India.
SMSF’s water management initiatives include cost-effective rainwater harvesting systems, groundwater recharge, restoration of traditional water bodies, and accessible drinking water solutions. The foundation also promotes Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs to encourage sustainable water practices among rural communities.
The award ceremony, attended by President Droupadi Murmu, was held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. Cabinet minister C R Patil, along with state water officials, presented the award, acknowledging SMSF’s role in transforming rural water resources. Out of over 600 applicants across nine categories, SMSF was among the 38 recognized for outstanding contributions.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, SMSF has expanded its impact across 13 Indian states and over 12,700 villages, benefiting approximately 5.27 million people. Established as a charitable trust in 1999, SMSF addresses water security, agricultural practices, and education, aiming to uplift rural communities and improve their quality of life.
In addition to the National Water Award, SMSF recently received the Fortune Leadership Award as “Most Trusted NGO.” Anjali Makhija, SMSF’s Trustee and CEO, dedicated these honors to the foundation’s partners and rural beneficiaries, emphasizing that such recognition will fuel SMSF’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development initiatives across India.
