Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation: Project Van Dhara

Varun Beverages Ltd, one of the largest PepsiCo bottlers in the world, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, the philanthropic arm of RJ Corp, founded by vis Read more

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Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation: Project Van Dhara

Varun Beverages Ltd, one of the largest PepsiCo bottlers in the world, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, the philanthropic arm of RJ Corp, founded by visionary leader Ravi Jaipuria, has undertaken a shared mission to blend business growth with community well-being. Through their initiative, Project Van Dhara – Plant Trees, Plant Hope, they have embraced the agroforest concept, planting a diverse mix of native, fruit-bearing, and climate-resilient trees within agricultural landscapes.

This initiative not only addresses climate change mitigation by enhancing carbon sequestration and restoring biodiversity but also drives economic development for local communities. By integrating trees into farmland, Project Van Dhara improves soil health, supports sustainable agriculture, and creates alternative income sources for farmers through the sale of fruits, timber, and other tree-based produce.

True to RJ Corp’s philosophy of aligning corporate success with societal progress, Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, is sowing seeds of resilience, ensuring that the communities they serve are empowered, the environment is nurtured, and hope grows alongside every tree planted.

 

Project Planning & Execution

No of Trees: 10,000 Trees

Plantation Location: Dharuhera, Rewadi, Haryana-122106

Plantation Duration: 29th July 2025 to 7th August 2025 

Name of Species: Mango, Lemon, Mahogany, Teak, Custard Apple, Amla, Jackfruit

Species Selection & Its Benefits

The project emphasizes planting native and locally suited tree species, ensuring high survival rates, long-term ecological health, and alignment with community needs. Each species is carefully chosen to enhance biodiversity, improve soil fertility, and generate reliable income for farmers, thereby supporting sustainable land use. Farmer participation and consent are integral to the process, ensuring the plantations complement agricultural practices and strengthen rural livelihoods.

The project strategically selected Mango, Lemon, Mahogany, Teak, Amla, Jackfruit, and Custard Apple for their diverse ecological, economic, and social benefits. Mango provides strong financial returns due to its high market demand and role in microclimate regulation. Lemon, hardy, and low-maintenance, it ensures a quick and reliable income while supporting pollinators. Mahogany, a valuable timber species, contributes to carbon sequestration and offers future income opportunities. Teak, a premium timber tree, enhances carbon storage, enriches soil quality, and creates long-term economic value. Amla, a medicinal and fruit-bearing species, supports nutrition, provides a steady income, and thrives in varied soil conditions. Jackfruit, a high-yielding fruit tree, provides seasonal produce and enhances food security while promoting biodiversity. Custard Apple, known for its resilience and nutritional fruit, improves farmers’ incomes while contributing to food diversity and local ecological balance.

Together, these thoughtfully selected species contribute to ecological balance, climate resilience, and economic stability for local communities under Project Van Dhara.

Beneficiaries Details

This agroforestry initiative involves 15 farmers collectively planting 7 carefully selected sapling species integrated into existing farmland. The project aims to enhance farm productivity, strengthen livelihoods, and promote long-term ecological resilience.

For details on each farmer and their land's geolocation,

Please refer to the Appendix

Planting Methodology and Its Advantages

Agroforestry: Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm, RJ Foundation has embraced agroforestry as a powerful approach to blend environmental sustainability with community development. Through Project Van Dhara – Plant Trees, Plant Hope, the initiative promotes the plantation of native, fruit-bearing, and timber trees within agricultural landscapes. This not only improves soil health and restores biodiversity but also strengthens farmers’ livelihoods by creating additional income opportunities. With a strong focus on climate resilience, transparency, and long-term community impact, the project is cultivating greener farmlands and empowering rural communities. Together, we are sowing the seeds of a sustainable and hopeful future.

Advantages of Agroforestry

  • Increased Farmer Incomes: This approach helps increase farmers' income by as much as 3 times. Farmers benefit from diversified income sources, lifting economic resilience.

  • Sustainable Livelihoods: Farmers benefit from diversified income sources through the sale of fruits and other tree-based products, reducing dependence on a single crop.

  • Enhanced Biodiversity: Agroforestry creates a diverse ecosystem by integrating trees with crops, attracting pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects that support natural pest control.

  • Environmental Sustainability: This model reduces carbon emissions and promotes sustainable land management, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

  • Food Security & Nutritional Benefits: Fruit-bearing trees provide a direct source of food, improving local nutrition while supporting long-term agricultural productivity.

  • Carbon Sequestration & Climate Resilience: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change while providing shade and windbreaks that reduce temperature extremes and improve microclimatic conditions.

  • Soil Health and Water Conservation: Tree roots prevent soil erosion, enhance water retention, and improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and adding organic matter. Agroforestry systems also support groundwater recharge, reduce runoff, and improve soil moisture retention, making them ideal for drought-prone regions.

 

Conclusion Elements

Direct Impact

Parameters Values References
No. of Trees Planted 10,000
Carbon Sequestration Potential (KG) 20 Small to medium-sized trees can sequester around 10–48 kilograms (22–106 pounds) of CO₂ annually.

https://growbilliontrees.com/blogs/knowledge/how-much-co2-can-one-tree-absorb
Carbon Sequestration by 10,000 mature trees ( tonnes/year) 200 No. of Trees x Carbon Sequestration by 1 mature trees per year
Carbon Credit Equivalent 200 One carbon credit is equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas.
Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen (tonnes/Year) 1.8 https://www.iea.org/countries/india/emissions
Offsets Annual Carbon Footprint of (Adults) 111 Carbon offset by 10,000 mature trees per year / Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen per year

*This impact analysis is forward-looking (An Agroforestry project matures in 3-5 years)

Annual Production and Income Estimates of 10000 Trees Planted

Category No. of Trees Production Total Income Establishment Period Income Realisation Pattern
Fruit 3,551 234.2 tonnes ₹4,619,400 1-5 Years Recurring (Annual / Multiple harvests per year)
Timber 6,449 124155 Cubic feet ₹145,561,500 15-25 Years One-time (at maturity / final harvest)

*Revenue/ Income outcomes in agroforestry depend on tree survival, varities, density, management quality, climate conditions, and market prices; figures shown are indicative planning estimates, not assured returns.

Detailed Assumptions for Production and Income Estimates

Fruit Trees
Plant Name Fruit Selling Price (per Kg) Annual Production per Tree (Kg) No. of Trees Planted Total Production per year (tonnes) Total Revenue per year COG's + weather/pests losses Total Income
Mango ₹35 100 1,436 143.6 ₹5,026,000 40% ₹3,015,600
Lemon ₹30 40 915 36.6 ₹1,098,000 40% ₹658,800
Custard Apple ₹40 50 630 31.5 ₹1,260,000 50% ₹630,000
Amla ₹20 125 180 22.5 ₹450,000 30% ₹315,000
Jackfruit ₹25 120 390 46.8 ₹1,170,000 40% ₹702,000
Total 3,551 234.2 ₹7,834,000 ₹4,619,400
Timber Trees
Plant Name Timber Selling Price( per Cubic Feet) Timber Production
/ Tree (Cubic feet)
No. of Trees Planted Total Production from 1 Harvest (Cubic feet) Total Revenue from 1 Harvest COG's + weather/pests losses Total Income
Teak ₹3,000 15 965 14,475 ₹43,425,000 30% ₹30,397,500
Mahagony ₹1,500 20 5,484 109,680 ₹164,520,000 30% ₹115,164,000
Total 6,449 124,155 ₹207,945,000 ₹145,561,500


Indirect Impact

Community Impact

  • Empowerment of Farmers - By providing training and resources for sustainable farming practices, agroforestry equips farmers with skills to enhance productivity and adapt to environmental changes.

  • Food Security – By integrating fruit-bearing trees into agricultural systems, the initiative ensures a stable food supply, providing nutritious produce for both consumption and market sale.

  • Environmental Awareness – The project educates the local community on the importance of tree planting, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land use.

  • Enhanced Social Equity – Agroforestry initiatives foster enhanced social equity by empowering marginalized farmers with sustainable livelihoods, bridging economic gaps, and promoting inclusive community participation in environmental conservation efforts.

  • Resilience to Climate Change – Agroforestry improves soil health, enhances water retention, and reduces land degradation, making farming communities more adaptable to changing climate conditions.

  • Health and Well-being – Increased green cover improves air quality, reduces heat stress, and provides access to nutrient-rich fruits, contributing to the overall health of local communities.

Environmental Impact

  • Carbon Sequestration: Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Soil Health Improvement: Agroforestry enriches soil through organic matter from fallen leaves and roots, improving fertility, structure, and nutrient availability for crops.

  • Erosion Prevention: Tree roots stabilize the soil, reducing erosion caused by wind and water while protecting nearby agricultural fields and water bodies.

  • Biodiversity ConservationBy creating habitats for various species, agroforestry enhances biodiversity, supporting pollinators, beneficial insects, and native wildlife.

  • Water Cycle Regulation: Trees improve water retention, recharge groundwater levels, and reduce surface runoff, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable water cycle.

  • Microclimate RegulationAgroforestry moderates temperature extremes, reduces wind speeds, and increases humidity, creating favorable conditions for crop growth and ecosystem balance.


Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved through Agroforestry

  • SDG 1: No Poverty – By integrating agroforestry with traditional farming, Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's initiative, provides farmers with additional income sources through fruit yields, improving economic resilience, and reducing poverty in rural areas.

  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The plantation of fruit-bearing trees enhances food security by offering nutritional produce while improving soil health for sustainable agricultural productivity.

  • SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Tree plantations improve air quality, soil fertility, and water conservation, creating a healthier environment for local communities. The presence of green spaces also promotes mental well-being.

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's agroforestry initiative, includes farmer training on sustainable land-use practices. These educational efforts equip farmers with knowledge on conservation, resource management, and climate-resilient agriculture.

  • SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – By reducing soil erosion, improving groundwater recharge, and minimising surface runoff, the plantation promotes sustainable water management in the region.

  • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The initiative generates employment opportunities for rural communities, provides training in sustainable agroforestry, and supports long-term economic growth through enhanced land productivity.

  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation project integrates innovative agroforestry techniques, including multi-layer cropping systems and soil conservation methods, fostering sustainable land use and industry-community collaboration.

  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By involving small-scale and marginalised farmers, the project promotes economic inclusivity and reduces inequalities by ensuring equitable access to agroforestry benefits.

  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Agroforestry reduces dependency on chemical inputs, promotes organic farming, and ensures the responsible use of natural resources, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

  • SDG 13: Climate Action – The planted trees act as carbon sinks, sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and mitigating the effects of climate change in the region.

  • SDG 15: Life on Land – This initiative promotes biodiversity conservation, prevents deforestation, and restores degraded land, fostering healthy ecosystems and sustainable forestry practices.

  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The collaboration between Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, Grow Billion Trees, and local farmers demonstrate the power of partnerships in achieving sustainability goals and fostering large-scale ecological restoration.

ESG Achieved through Agroforestry:

  • Environmental Impact: SVarun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's agroforestry initiative, plays a crucial role in environmental sustainability by enhancing carbon sequestration, restoring biodiversity, and improving soil and water conservation. The plantation of native and fruit-bearing trees supports climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing ecosystem resilience. Additionally, the project helps prevent soil erosion, improves groundwater retention, and contributes to a healthier, greener landscape. By integrating sustainable agroforestry practices, this initiative ensures long-term ecological benefits, fostering a self-sustaining environment that supports both nature and local communities.

  • Social Impact: The initiative brings significant social benefits by fostering sustainable livelihoods, improving food security, and enhancing community well-being. By integrating fruit-bearing trees, the project helps farmers diversify their income sources, ensuring greater economic stability and resilience for rural households. Agroforestry practices optimise land use efficiency, leading to higher agricultural productivity while maintaining ecological balance. The plantation also contributes to better air quality, creates green spaces for community well-being, and encourages local participation through awareness programmes. By engaging and educating stakeholders, the initiative empowers communities with the knowledge and skills to adopt sustainable land management practices, fostering long-term environmental and social sustainability.

  • Governance Impact: Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation upholds strong governance principles by committing to ethical and responsible corporate practices in sustainability. The agroforestry initiative aligns with Varun Beverages Ltd through the CSR Arm RJ Foundation's goal, ensure transparency, accountability, and long-term impact. By collaborating with Grow Billion Trees, farmers and local communities, Varun Beverages Ltd, through its CSR Arm, RJ Foundation, fosters strategic partnerships that promote environmental stewardship and responsible land management. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into its corporate framework, showcasing leadership in sustainability and social responsibility.

Building Communities

Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's agroforestry initiative, goes beyond tree plantation; it strengthens rural communities by empowering farmers, fostering collaborations, and creating sustainable livelihoods. By integrating environmental stewardship with social impact, the project nurtures a sense of shared responsibility, driving long-term benefits for both people and the planet.

  • Empowering Farmers: Varun Beverages Ltd, through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's agroforestry initiative, strengthens farmers’ economic stability by diversifying income sources and improving agricultural productivity. By integrating tree plantations with existing farmland, farmers benefit from enhanced soil fertility, better crop yields, and long-term financial gains. This initiative promotes self-sufficiency and long-term environmental stewardship, ensuring a sustainable future for both farmers and the ecosystem.

  • Fostering Partnerships: Collaboration is at the core of Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's plantation initiative, bringing together corporate, environmental, and community stakeholders. The partnership between Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, Grow Billion Trees, and local farmers created a strong foundation for sustainable development. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, this initiative ensures that environmental and social benefits extend beyond the immediate plantation, fostering long-term ecological and economic resilience.

  • Creating a Ripple Effect: The impact of this initiative goes beyond tree planting; it sets in motion a chain reaction of positive environmental and social change. By improving biodiversity, enhancing carbon sequestration, and promoting sustainable farming, the project contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Additionally, as more farmers adopt agroforestry practices, the region experiences long-term economic and environmental benefits, inspiring further community-driven conservation efforts.

This initiative proved that environmental sustainability thrives when rooted in community effort. It’s not just about planting trees, it’s about planting hope, collaboration, and a shared vision for a greener tomorrow.

 

Commitment by Grow Billion Trees

  • Ensuring Tree Survivability: GBT prioritizes native species, continuous monitoring, and soil health improvement using organic fertilizers. These efforts ensure sustainable growth and benefit the farmers and communities.

  • Transparency & Accountability: GBT provides detailed reports on tree growth, survival rates, and carbon benefits, using geo-fencing and regular updates to maintain transparency and effectiveness.

  • Sustainable Plantation Efforts: GBT implements projects that balance environmental, social, and economic goals, addressing urban heat islands and degraded farmlands. These efforts promote ecological balance, livelihoods, and long-term climate resilience.

  • Enhancing Ecosystem Health: By selecting native species and creating diverse habitats, GBT enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, ensuring long-term ecological health and supporting wildlife.

  • Long-Term Impact: GBT’s initiatives tackle environmental challenges, enhance rural livelihoods, foster climate resilience, and promote sustainable development while reducing carbon footprints.

 

Acknowledgment

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the successful completion of the plantation initiative at Rewadi, Haryana. This achievement represents a significant step towards environmental restoration, sustainable land use, and community empowerment. It would not have been possible without the collective efforts of dedicated individuals, local farmers, and partner organisations. Their unwavering commitment has played a crucial role in fostering a greener, more resilient ecosystem for future generations.

To Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation We sincerely thank Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation for their unwavering dedication to sustainability and environmental conservation. By integrating agroforestry into its CSR mission through Project Van Dhara – Plant Trees, Plant Hope, Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering greener landscapes and empowering local communities. We deeply appreciate the initiative of planting thousands of native and fruit-bearing trees, which will enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and contribute to carbon sequestration, ensuring long-term ecological and economic benefits. Moreover, by promoting sustainable land use, this initiative provides farmers with an additional source of income through fruit and timber production. Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation’s dedication to environmental sustainability and community upliftment is truly commendable, and we are grateful for their contribution to a greener and more resilient future.

To the Farmers of Rewadi: Your dedication to embracing agroforestry and incorporating fruit-bearing trees into your farming practices is truly commendable. This initiative not only enriches soil health but also strengthens long-term agricultural sustainability. Your commitment to fostering a healthier ecosystem while securing a better future for future generations is inspiring. We are grateful to be part of this journey and look forward to witnessing the lasting positive impact of your efforts.

To Our Ground Partners and VolunteersYour dedication, expertise, and passion for environmental conservation have been essential in making this initiative a success. Through our collective efforts, we have shown that collaboration and a shared vision for sustainability can create a lasting impact. Your invaluable contributions have played a crucial role in driving this mission forward, and we deeply appreciate your commitment. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey toward a greener future.

Through this collective effort, we have taken significant steps toward revitalizing ecosystems, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in Rewadi. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership in pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future for all.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.

 

Closing Remarks

The successful completion of the agroforestry plantation at Rewadi, Haryana, marks a significant milestone in Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation's journey towards environmental sustainability and community empowerment. This initiative has not only expanded the region’s green cover but has also provided long-term benefits to local farmers by integrating sustainable agricultural practices.

By enhancing soil fertility, supporting water conservation, and generating additional income through fruit production and other byproducts, the project strengthens livelihoods and promotes financial stability for farming communities. With 10,000 trees now flourishing, this initiative will continue to contribute to ecological balance, biodiversity restoration, and climate resilience.

As we celebrate this achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to driving impactful sustainability efforts and inspiring more organisations and individuals to take action for the environment. We extend our deepest gratitude to Varun Beverages Ltd through CSR Arm RJ Foundation, the farmers of Rewadi, our partners, and all those who contributed to making this project a success. Your dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality.

This is just the beginning of a larger movement towards a greener and more sustainable future. Through collective efforts, we can build a resilient environment and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

 

Appendix

Farmer list

Sr. No Farmer Name Total saplings Lemon Mahogany Sagwan Custard Apple Mango Amla Jackfruit Plot Size (in Acres) Village Name Google Location
1 Ajay Kumar 120 15 20 17 10 25 18 15 0.25 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/3zdc47pf
2 Mukesh yadav 990 90 388 120 20 360 12 0 1 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/4eux7s4m
3 jeet singh 765 28 497 0 28 140 0 72 0.75 Bhadsana https://tinyurl.com/468vrenp
4 Ram kishan 755 40 590 50 15 25 20 15 1 Bhadsana https://tinyurl.com/7j7x2wth
5 Bhupendra Yadav 958 30 610 50 0 200 0 68 1 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/ycybb8rc
6 Jagdish 242 80 110 5 0 25 0 22 0.5 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/95vwbtex
7 Satveer Singh 515 118 160 60 2 145 20 10 0.5 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/mr3berpv
8 Surendra kumar 503 20 308 80 30 10 30 25 0.75 Bhadsana https://tinyurl.com/v9ve3bkp
9 Rati Ram 486 25 348 30 20 45 0 18 0.75 Bhadsana https://tinyurl.com/3rf7k6jw
10 Bhup singh 2176 210 1071 300 415 180 0 0 4 Bhadsana https://tinyurl.com/2ssp96fv
11 Hitesh Saini 583 29 484 0 15 25 10 20 1 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/mryskr36
12 Sonu yadav 403 10 350 0 5 15 5 18 0.5 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/3tecesxn
13 Ajay yadav 252 40 100 40 10 10 30 22 0.25 Kharkhara https://tinyurl.com/27cnfy8r
14 Raj kumar 188 20 50 50 10 30 15 13 0.25 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/3tecesxn
15 Randheer Singh 1064 160 398 163 50 201 20 72 3 Nandrampur https://tinyurl.com/27cnfy8r

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