Pernod Ricard India (PRI) has made significant strides in enhancing agricultural productivity and water resources across 13 states and three Union Territories in India. Through its Water, Agriculture and Livelihoods (WAL) programme, the company has reached over 500,000 people, focusing on water stewardship, climate-resilient farming, and rural income enhancement.
Agricultural Impact
The WAL programme has supported 22,430 farmers in adopting regenerative agricultural practices and efficient irrigation systems. These efforts have resulted in a 15-20% increase in crop yields and an 18-22% reduction in input costs, according to Pernod Ricard India. Such improvements are crucial in water-stressed regions, where sustainable farming practices can significantly impact livelihoods.
Water Resource Management
Since 2019, PRI has developed 2,410 groundwater recharge structures, creating a cumulative water recharge potential of over 3,339 million litres. In the fiscal year 2024-25 alone, these interventions generated more than 630 million litres of water potential, benefiting over 20,000 community members across 28 villages in eight states. This large-scale groundwater recharge initiative has replenished more than 3.3 times the water used across PRI's operations.
Renewable Energy Commitment
PRI's commitment to sustainability extends beyond agriculture and water management. The company meets 98% of its energy requirements across its distilleries through renewable sources such as biomass. Additionally, all production sites and offices operate on 100% renewable electricity under its global RE100 commitment.
Future Outlook
The WAL programme's success in improving agricultural yields and water resources highlights the potential for similar initiatives to drive sustainable development in other regions. As PRI continues to expand its efforts, the focus on renewable energy and sustainable practices will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture and resource management in India.
| Metric | Impact |
|---|---|
| Crop Yield Increase | 15-20% |
| Input Cost Reduction | 18-22% |
| Water Recharge Potential | 3,339 million litres |
| Energy from Renewables | 98% |
The initiative's success underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in addressing environmental and economic challenges. For commodity traders and procurement teams, understanding the impact of such programmes can provide insights into future agricultural productivity and resource availability.
Sources:
