‘Pondman of India’ Ramveer Tanwar Conferred with Honorary Doctorate in Environmental Science

• ByStartupStory     |    November 3, 2026

Shri Khushal Das University, Rajasthan, honours renowned environmentalist Ramveer Tanwar for his remarkable contribution to water conservation and the restoration of over 100 ponds across India.

Renowned environmentalist and water conservationist Ramveer Tanwar, popularly known as the “Pondman of India,” has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Environmental Science by Shri Khushal Das University, Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to environmental protection, water conservation, and the rejuvenation of ponds and lakes across the country.

The honour was presented during the university’s Second Convocation Ceremony, held on October 31, 2026, where 384 students and researchers received various academic degrees.

The ceremony was presided over by Hon’ble Justice Manoj Kumar Garg, former Judge of the Rajasthan High Court, Jodhpur. Shri Shri 108 Swami Om Das Ji Maharaj, Peethadheeshwar of Akhil Bharatiya Sangaliya Dhuni, Sikar, attended as the Chief Guest.

Several distinguished dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr.) Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Haryana Sahitya and Sanskriti Academy; Prof. (Vaidya) Govind Sahay Shukla, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University; and Dr. Vimla Dunkwal, Vice-Chancellor of Agriculture University, Kota, also graced the occasion.

From Mechanical Engineer to India’s Pondman

Hailing from Dadha village in Gautam Buddha Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, Ramveer Tanwar’s journey from a mechanical engineer to a nationally recognised environmentalist is an inspiring story of dedication and determination.

After completing his engineering education, Tanwar began his professional career with a multinational company. However, witnessing the gradual disappearance of traditional ponds, declining groundwater levels, and increasing water pollution in rural India motivated him to pursue environmental conservation.

He eventually left his corporate career to dedicate himself entirely to restoring India’s disappearing water bodies.

What began as a small initiative in his native village has now evolved into a nationwide environmental movement.

Through his organisation, Say Earth, Tanwar and his team have successfully rejuvenated more than 100 ponds and water bodies across India, with environmental initiatives spanning 10 states.

His organisation also works in urban forest development, biodiversity conservation, plantation drives, waste management, environmental education, and community engagement.

Recognised by the Prime Minister, Former President and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister

Ramveer Tanwar’s contribution to environmental conservation has received recognition at the highest levels of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated his water conservation efforts during his popular radio programme, Mann Ki Baat. Tanwar has also had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister personally, during which his environmental initiatives received appreciation.

Former President of India Ram Nath Kovind and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have also acknowledged and appreciated his remarkable work in restoring water bodies and promoting environmental sustainability.

His inspiring journey has attracted international media attention, with articles about his environmental initiatives published in prominent newspapers across six countries.

His life story and conservation efforts have also been featured in educational material used by CBSE-affiliated schools, inspiring young students to understand the importance of environmental responsibility and community participation.

Restoring Ponds, Reviving Ecosystems

For Ramveer Tanwar, pond rejuvenation is not merely about cleaning a water body. It is about restoring an entire ecosystem and reconnecting communities with their natural resources.

Through Say Earth, he collaborates with corporate organisations under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, government departments, NGOs, educational institutions, and local communities to restore neglected and polluted ponds.

His projects focus on scientific desilting, removal of accumulated waste, improving water storage capacity, groundwater recharge, biodiversity enhancement, plantation, and long-term ecological sustainability.

Alongside restoration activities, Tanwar travels extensively across India to conduct awareness campaigns, community meetings, workshops, and educational programmes highlighting the importance of traditional water bodies.

He is also active on digital and social media platforms, where he regularly raises awareness about water conservation, environmental challenges, and the urgent need to protect natural ecosystems.

An Honour Dedicated to Collective Environmental Action

Expressing gratitude to Shri Khushal Das University for the recognition, Tanwar described the honour as a tribute to the collective efforts of the communities, volunteers, corporate partners, government institutions, and the entire Say Earth team working towards water conservation.

He emphasised that thousands of traditional ponds across India continue to face threats from encroachment, pollution, and neglect, making their restoration an urgent environmental priority.

He believes that protecting water bodies cannot be the responsibility of governments alone; it requires active participation from communities, institutions, and individuals.

A Journey from a Small Village to National Recognition

From a small village in Greater Noida to becoming a nationally recognised environmental conservationist, Ramveer Tanwar’s journey demonstrates how individual determination and community participation can create meaningful environmental change.

Having already contributed to the restoration of more than 100 ponds, he continues to work towards his larger vision of reviving India’s traditional water bodies and promoting sustainable water management.

The Honorary Doctorate in Environmental Science conferred by Shri Khushal Das University marks another significant milestone in his journey and recognises his continued commitment to protecting India’s water resources and natural heritage.

His story stands as an inspiration for young people, environmental professionals, and communities across the country, demonstrating that meaningful change can begin with a single individual determined to make a difference.

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