It was announced that the S M Sehgal Foundation, SMSF, was accorded the 5th National Water Award 2024 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. It received a special mention for best civil society category for outstanding efforts in water management.

SMSF's Water Management Program- Focus areas are rainwater harvesting, replenishing of ground water, and reviving the traditional water bodies. The programme also targets safe drinking water access through innovative low-cost technologies and includes WASH behavior change.

The awards ceremony took place at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu was the chief guest when the awards were presented by the top organizations across categories. The event was also attended by the state water ministers and secreties. Cabinet Minister C R Patil was also present on the occasion. "We received over 600 applications in nine categories", said the Secretary at the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Vini Mahajan. "A jury panel selected thirty-eight organizations for awards and special mentions".

This week, SMSF was conferred a National Water Award in addition to receiving a Fortune Leadership Award in the 'Most Trusted NGO' category. The Trustee & CEO of SMSF, Anjali Makhija, dedicated the awards to the partners supporting on-the-ground interventions and the rural communities that place their trust in the foundation. She said this recognition will inspire the organization to further improve its efforts.

Since its establishment, SMSF has been committed to transforming the lives of rural poor people in India by providing solutions to critical issues about food and water security. It has been working across thirteen states and more than 12,700 villages touching the lives of over 5.27 million individuals through social, economic, and environmental changes in the community.