Development Alternatives (DA) was awarded the prestigious Water Sustainability Award 2025–26 in the “Protect and Restore Community Water Structure” category during a ceremony held on 6 August 2026 in New Delhi. Hosted by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) in partnership with UNDP and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the 5th edition of the Awards celebrated DA for advancing community-led pond restoration through ecosystem conservation and groundwater recharge towards achievement of Sustainable Development Goal on Water and Sanitation for All.

Under the Natural Ecosystem Restoration programme, the initiative demonstrates how ecological restoration of traditional water bodies directly strengthens long-term climate resilience and local water security.

Rather than relying solely on isolated physical interventions, the model focuses on bringing degraded aquatic ecosystems back to life through community-led stewardship. Every restored pond serves as a vital ecological asset that restores natural hydrological functions while nurturing collective action on the ground.

This honour reflects the dedication of DA’s field teams, partners, and local communities, proving that restoring ecosystems through collaborative, community-owned action creates lasting environmental change and secures a water-resilient future.