The idea behind eco-friendly infrastructure is to ensure that building technologies will be in alignment with local resources, thereby leaving a small footprint on the environment. When it comes to life in India’s villages, this means emphasising or, in some cases, returning to traditional construction systems.

Indian villages have perfected many time-tested and proven building technologies that use natural materials. The need of the hour is to promote these technologies, as using such local materials to build also helps to reduce energy costs. For example, one of the key elements is the use of compressed mud blocks.

In fact, Amma herself says that if we plant trees, this planet will become a paradise.

On the other side of the coin is replenishing nature with resources that we have used. We are encouraging massive afforestation drives and have spearheaded the planting of thousands and thousands of trees. This will also help to combat climate change.

In fact, Amma herself says that if we plant trees, this planet will become a paradise. A tree is like a house that we construct for Mother Earth. Trees also help regulate the micro-climate of the village.

Finally, the Amrita Kuteeram Project was begun in 1998 and has built more than 45,000 houses for the poorest people across the country. Families in six of our villages have received homes and the initiative continues in the rest of our villages. For villages not connected to the power grid, we are providing micro-grid solutions using solar panels.