ISKCON's Govardhan Eco Village wins Smart Village Award

Govardhan Eco Village, set up by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in adjoining Thane district, has won an award for being a sustainable project in rural Maharashtra.
The village at Wada taluka is located 108km north of Mumbai at the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains.
The award, "Smart Village," has been instituted by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), which also gives awards in various other categories.
The award was received by Nimai Lila Das, Chief Sustainability Officer of Govardhan Eco Village, in New Delhi yesterday, said a statement issued by ISKCON here today.
Govardhan Eco Village won the honour jointly with Ecosoft, the statement added.

Director of Govardhan Eco Village Gauranga Das said, "Over 100 entries were received at the second edition of the awards with 15 winners under 12 categories. Each of the members of the jury rated the projects and the winner was decided based on the cumulative score. We are excited to receive this award."

The awards are presented in various categories including the smart city project, safe city, smart ICT, green buildings, architectural design, smart urban mobility, smart energy, smart village, smart water and solid waste management.
Das added, "The smart village award category recognises village project that integrates upgradation and uplift of various (socio-economic, infrastructure, etc.) facilities for making life smooth and accessible for the villagers."

Describing the main characteristics of the rural project, Radhanath Swamiji Maharaj, ISKCON spiritual leader, said, "Govardhan Eco Village is a farm community and retreat centre spread over a scenic landscape of 100 acres at Galtare in Wada taluka.
"Since its inception in 2003, Govardhan Eco Village has made steady progress in organic farming, cow protection, rural education & development, alternative energy, eco friendly constructions and sustainable living.