Development Alternatives Group

Under the Local Institutions and SDG Action programme, Development Alternatives and ReNew Jal Urja Private Limited inaugurated the schools renovated under the Integrated Village Development (IVD) Project and formally handed them over to the School Management Committee for Operation and Maintenance in Falai and Basti villages of Rudraprayag on 23 and 26 May 2026.

The events witnessed the presence of Mrs. Niharika Tomar - Superintendent of Police, Rudraprayag, Mr. Axay Bhardwaj- Plant Head ReNew, Ajay Kumar Choudhary - Chief Education Officer, PRI members, SHGs, teachers, and community representatives.

From school infrastructure improvements to women-led enterprises like mushroom farming, dhoop batti, and choulai laddoo production, the program is strengthening local institutions and community ownership for sustainable rural development.

In Bundelkhand, where recurring droughts and declining groundwater continue to threaten rural livelihoods, Development Alternatives (DA), through its Resource Access and Equity (RAE) programme, is strengthening community-led water resilience across Niwari district.

Under the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan and Water Resilient Bundelkhand Programme, DA’s Technical Support Unit (TSU), in collaboration with the District Administration, has been working to restore traditional water systems, improve groundwater recharge, and enhance equitable access to safe drinking water and irrigation resources.

From revival of Chandela-era ponds and restoration of check dams to shramdaan drives, water conservation rallies, river rejuvenation, and decentralized solar water supply systems managed by Jal Upbhokta Samuhs, the initiative is strengthening local stewardship and reducing water stress across rural communities.

The programme also reflects an integrated development approach by facilitating dialogue on social inclusion issues, including school enrollment support for Saharia tribal children in Chandravan and Mathurpura villages.
These efforts have received wide recognition across regional media platforms, including Niwari Bhaskar, Nav Rashtriya Prerna, Gaurav Khabar, Suvidha News, and several district-level rural media networks, helping amplify community voices and strengthen awareness around water conservation and climate resilience in Bundelkhand.

| Bihar is projected to add nearly 790 million m² of built-up area by 2070, making sustainable and resource-efficient construction critical for the future.

Development Alternatives, in collaboration with IIT Patna and supported by Energiva Ventures, is convening a stakeholder workshop focused on sustainable materials, low-carbon construction pathways, and collaborative action for Bihar’s built environment.

25 May 2026
Chanakya Hotel, Patna

Stay tuned for more updates!