Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has entered into a strategic partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’. This collaboration represents a significant step towards integrating heritage conservation with sustainable water management.
The MoU was formally signed by Zulfeqar Ali, Director of ASI, Ministry of Culture, and Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International. The agreement was subsequently exchanged between Yadubir Singh Rawat, Director General of ASI, and George, symbolising a shared commitment to preserving India’s rich cultural heritage while promoting environmental sustainability.
Scope and Objectives of the Partnership
This initiative, undertaken as part of ASI’s ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’ and Bisleri’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme ‘Nayi Umeed’, focuses on the revival and conservation of historic water bodies across India. The project aims to restore these water bodies through ecological revival, structural conservation, and enhanced visitor engagement, reinforcing the significance of sustainable heritage management.
Key Heritage Water Bodies Identified for Restoration
The initial phase of the project will focus on four historically significant water bodies: Chand Baori (Abhaneri, Rajasthan), Baori at Neemrana (Rajasthan), Padma and Rani Talabs (Ranthambore Fort, Rajasthan), and Budha Budhi Pond (Kalinjar Fort, Uttar Pradesh).
These sites, which have long held cultural and historical importance, will undergo comprehensive restoration to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Planned Restoration and Conservation Activities
The rejuvenation efforts will include:
Desilting and Cleaning – Removal of accumulated debris and sediments to restore water quality.
Ecological Revival – Enhancing biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable replenishment of water bodies.
Landscaping – Improving the surrounding areas to create an aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable landscape.
Informative Signages – Providing historical and ecological information to enhance awareness among tourists and local communities.
Phased Implementation – Executing restoration activities in a manner that minimises disruption to the heritage sites while preserving their structural integrity.
Commitment from Bisleri Leadership
Speaking on the collaboration, Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and heritage conservation. He stated, “Bisleri is dedicated to making a lasting impact through sustainability-driven initiatives. Our collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India under the ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’ underscores our dedication to preserving India’s cultural legacy while ensuring the sustainability of vital water resources for future generations.”
Impact and Significance of the Initiative
This partnership is expected to have a profound impact in several key areas:
Cultural and Environmental Preservation – Revitalising historic water bodies while ensuring ecological sustainability.
Enhanced Tourism – Creating well-maintained heritage sites that attract both domestic and international visitors.
Community Engagement – Raising awareness about water conservation and heritage preservation among local communities.
Alignment with National Goals – Supporting India’s broader environmental restoration and cultural heritage conservation initiatives.
The partnership between Bisleri International and the Archaeological Survey of India signifies a forward-thinking approach to heritage conservation, combining ecological responsibility with cultural preservation.