Ganga Action Parivar

Ganga Action Parivar (GAP) collaborates with INTACH to propose the Upper Ganga Region, encompassing Gaumukh to Haridwar, along with the Mandakini and Alakananda Valleys, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This initiative aims to acknowledge the global significance of this area, beyond local or national concerns. The proposal emphasizes the area's worthiness for World Heritage status due to its cultural and natural significance. It seeks to preserve the spiritual sanctity attributed to Mother Ganga, where daily rituals like Ganga Aarti and pilgrimages have united millions worldwide for centuries. Additionally, the region's unparalleled biodiversity and the exceptional self-healing properties of the Gangajal (Ganga's waters) underscore the necessity for its protection. Declaring this region a UNESCO World Heritage Site ensures sustainable development while safeguarding its rich natural and cultural heritage.

Ganga Action Parivar (GAP) conducts conferences and workshops, uniting scientists, environmentalists, activists, Government officials, and spiritual leaders to seek sustainable solutions for the challenges affecting Ganga and its tributaries. These gatherings occur throughout the year, aiming to address the myriad issues facing these water bodies. Additionally, GAP focuses on raising awareness and outreach efforts. It organises Ganga festivals, dramas, and community activities, fostering environmental consciousness and reverence for Ganga among people. These initiatives inspire thousands to join in the collective endeavour of preserving and restoring the sanctity of the river.

The organisation promotes vegetarianism as a pivotal choice impacting the planet, health, animals, and society. Ganga Action Parivar advocates ahimsa (non-violence) through education, highlighting how meat consumption leads to the mistreatment and slaughter of billions of animals annually. Six global concerns can be alleviated by embracing a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, an approach detailed in Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji’s book, "Vegetarianism: For Your Body, Your Mind, Your Soul, and Your Planet," available online for deeper understanding.

Kumbh Mela, a cherished tradition dating back to ancient times, gathers millions every twelve years at four holy sites, symbolizing India's rich heritage. Enveloped in spirituality, it offers a mosaic of traditions—satsangs, sacred bathing, yoga, and spiritual gatherings—where even deities are believed to grace the event. Recently, under Pujya Swamiji's leadership, a groundbreaking "Green Initiative" partnered with local entities, aiming not just to enhance the event grounds but also to raise global awareness about safeguarding Mother Ganga and the environment. This initiative educated attendees on environmental stewardship, advocating eco-friendly technologies like water filtration systems and sustainable toilets, and fostering a collective ethos of environmental conservation.

The Global Interfaith WASH Alliance (GIWA), a Coalition of Compassion, confronts the global crisis of unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) causing a child's death every 15 seconds worldwide. In India, where millions lack improved sanitation and clean drinking water, GIWA addresses the leading cause of child mortality. Recognizing the need for education alongside provision, GIWA engages faith leaders to educate communities on WASH importance. Through faith-based institutions, it promotes healthier lifestyles, and environmental harmony, and provides eco-friendly bio-toilets and clean water systems. Responding to disasters like the Himalayan flooding, GIWA offers immediate relief and trains locals to prevent waterborne illnesses. Collaborating globally, GIWA aims for widespread impact, envisioning a healthier world for all.