DS Group Certified Water Positive by GRIHA, Setting High Sustainability Standards
In a landmark achievement for corporate environmental responsibility, the Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a prominent FMCG conglomerate and multi-business corporation, has been officially certified as Water Positive by GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment). This certification, a joint initiative of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, and TERI, highlights DS Group's exceptional commitment to water stewardship and sustainable practices.
Rigorous Assessment and Impressive Results
The certification process involved a comprehensive water assessment conducted over two and a half years, spanning DS Group's diverse business units across 30 locations throughout India. The evaluation resulted in a Water Positivity Index of 1.80, positioning DS Group among a select few Indian corporations with such a high score. This index reflects the company's ability to replenish more water than it consumes, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey.
Through strategic interventions, DS Group has created a storage potential of 66 lakh kiloliters of water. This achievement is the result of an integrated approach that combines:
- Rainwater harvesting structures to capture and store precipitation.
- Wastewater reuse systems to recycle and repurpose water within operations.
- Recharge wells to enhance groundwater levels and support aquifer replenishment.
- Water-efficient fixtures to minimize consumption across facilities.
- Ecological restoration measures to protect and revive natural water sources.
These efforts not only reduce the group's dependency on freshwater resources but also strengthen water security in surrounding communities through large-scale conservation projects. The business units involved include the Mouth Freshener Division, Food and Beverage, Hospitality, and Agriculture sectors, demonstrating a company-wide commitment.
Leadership Perspectives on Water Stewardship
Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of DS Group, emphasized the urgency of water conservation in his statement: "The whole world is moving rapidly towards sustainability, with global water demand projected to exceed supply by 40% by 2030. Recognizing this challenge, water stewardship has become a critical global priority." He highlighted that DS Group's initiatives align with global discussions, such as those expected at COP30, where water security and climate resilience are key topics.
Mr. Kumar further added, "We view sustainability not as a project but as a permanent responsibility. Guided by our philosophy of 'Create What is Worth Creating', DS Group will continue work to restore, replenish and build resilience for our people and the generations to come."
Sanjay Seth, VP and CEO of GRIHA Council and Senior Director at TERI, praised DS Group's efforts: "Water stewardship is central to building climate-resilient and sustainable businesses. By achieving Water Positive certification under GRIHA's Decarbonizing Habitat Programme, the DS Group has set a strong benchmark for industry leadership in responsible resource management." He noted that this certification exemplifies how sustainability, productivity, and profitability can coexist, encouraging other industries to follow suit.
Collective Efforts and Broader Sustainability Goals
The water positivity initiative at DS Group is a collaborative endeavor involving employees, suppliers, and customers. Employees actively drive conservation projects, suppliers adopt water-efficient practices, and customers are encouraged towards responsible consumption. This shared responsibility ensures that the group's commitment to water stewardship creates lasting positive impacts on both communities and ecosystems.
This certification complements DS Group's ongoing sustainability initiatives, which include programs in water management, livelihood support, agriculture, energy efficiency, and community development. The group aims to integrate conservation and responsible resource use into all operations and CSR programs, fostering long-term environmental balance and resilience.
About GRIHA and DS Group
GRIHA, established in 2007 as a collaboration between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and TERI, provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the environmental performance of buildings throughout their lifecycle. Recognized in India's Nationally Determined Contributions to the UNFCCC, GRIHA focuses on energy efficiency, resource conservation, and sustainable site planning, offering a definitive standard for green buildings in the Indian context.
Founded in 1929, DS Group is a leading FMCG conglomerate with a strong presence in India and internationally. Its diverse portfolio includes Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Fresheners, Hospitality, Agriculture, Luxury Retail, and other investments. Notable brands under the group include Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Rajnigandha, and L'Opera. The group's headquarters has also received LEED Platinum and LEED Zero Carbon certifications, underscoring its dedication to environmental excellence.
