MAM
Marico’s Jalashay creates over 400 crore litres of water potential nationwide
MUMBAI: Water is life, and Marico Limited is making sure every drop counts. On World Water Day, the leading FMCG giant reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by announcing that its Jalashay programme has created over 400 crores plus litres of water potential across Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat by the end of FY25. With over 1,200 water harvesting structures and micro-irrigation systems across 230 plus acres, Marico is not just conserving water it’s reshaping communities.
From drought-prone villages to government-designated aspirational districts, Marico’s Jalashay programme is making waves in water conservation. In Maharashtra’s Jalgaon, rainwater harvesting and infrastructure development have replenished water supplies, bringing much-needed relief to drought-hit areas. In Pondicherry, the initiative promotes rooftop rainwater harvesting and greywater treatment, ensuring sustainable water use in households and schools. Meanwhile, in Gujarat’s Dahod, Marico has constructed new water harvesting structures and carried out de-siltation of existing check dams, strengthening the region’s resilience against water scarcity and securing a sustainable water future for local communities.
To maximise efficiency, Marico has teamed up with ACWADAM, a leader in groundwater assessment, to develop a data-driven, scientific water management strategy. The company is also encouraging crop diversification to reduce reliance on water-intensive farming while promoting drip irrigation, green energy use, and water-resilient cropping techniques.
Commenting about the programme on World Water Day Marico Limited chief legal officer group general counsel, and secretary of the CSR committee Amit Bhasin said, “We are committed to embedding water stewardship into our business strategy, recognizing the critical role it plays in ensuring a sustainable future. Our Jalashay programme is designed to address the complex water challenges faced by our communities and we are proud of the progress we have made so far. Taking this a step forward, we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to drive meaningful impact and create a water availability for all.”
Under the Jalashay Jal Samrudhi project, Marico’s community-driven interventions have significantly improved water resource management, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity with assured irrigation that boosts crop yields. The initiative has also reduced dependency on erratic monsoons, providing farmers with greater income stability and securing their livelihoods. Additionally, by preventing soil erosion and preserving fertility, the project has contributed to better soil health, ensuring long-term sustainability for farming communities.
By aligning with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Clean Water & Sanitation (SDG 6) and Responsible Consumption & Production (SDG 12), Marico is proving that corporate responsibility can create lasting environmental and social change.
Brands
HP launches Smart Champs learning game show with JioStar for students
Sanya Malhotra hosts quiz series blending fun, learning and prizes
NEW DELHI: HP India has teamed up with JioStar to launch HP Smart Champs, a new learning-based game show designed to make education engaging for school students across the country.
Hosted by Sanya Malhotra, the 10-episode series brings together students from Grades 5 to 9, who compete in teams through quiz and puzzle-based challenges that test knowledge, logic and teamwork. The show will begin streaming on JioHotstar from April 11 and will premiere on Nick on April 18, with weekend episodes airing at 7 PM.
Powered by HP Smart Tank printers, the format integrates print-based learning into the gameplay, using worksheets, clues and visual problem-solving tools to encourage hands-on participation. The idea is to move students beyond rote memorisation and towards more applied, curiosity-led learning.
The competition promises high stakes, with winners set to receive a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, while runners-up will take home Rs 5 lakh. Additional rewards include HP AI laptops, Smart Tank printers and accessories, while the winning school will be awarded an HP Smart Tech Lab.
Speaking about the initiative, HP India managing director Ipsita Dasgupta said, “At HP, we believe nurturing India’s youth is key to the country’s progress, and technology plays a foundational role in enabling this. With HP Smart Champs, we wanted to create something beyond traditional learning, a fun-filled platform where curiosity, creativity and critical thinking take centre stage.”
On the show’s reach, JioStar head entertainment sales Mahesh Shetty said, “HP Smart Champs reflects how children today learn through exploration and experience. With Nick and JioHotstar, we are creating a multi-screen approach that is both engaging and meaningful.”
Highlighting the role of print, HP India senior director print Satish Kumar said, “The show brings print-based learning to life in an engaging format, helping students develop deeper understanding through hands-on experiences.”
The journey to the finale began with participation from over 1,000 schools across 26 cities, narrowing down to 34 finalists who will compete in a studio showdown in Mumbai.
With its blend of entertainment, education and technology, HP Smart Champs is positioning itself as more than just a quiz show. It is a nationwide push to make learning interactive, accessible and, above all, a lot more fun.
