At Midland Credit Management (MCM), we believe that responsible business goes hand in hand with responsible citizenship. That belief came to life in Gurugram – home to our largest operations site – where a once-degraded 21-acre landscape has been transformed into a thriving ecological haven, thanks to a visionary water conservation initiative led by our team in India.
This ambitious project, rooted in environmental stewardship and community collaboration, was recently honored with the Best Social Welfare Initiative of the Year at the 13th Corporate Social Responsibility Summit and Awards, hosted by UBS Forums in Mumbai.
From Neglect to Renewal
The journey began with a bold idea: to restore a neglected site overrun by invasive species and unmanaged waste into a sustainable green space that could serve both nature and the community. Partnering with iamgurgaon, a citizen-led environmental movement, we replaced non-native vegetation with indigenous flora, laying the foundation for a healthier ecosystem.
But the transformation didn’t stop there.
Water at the Heart of Change
Two carefully designed ponds – one perennial, the other seasonal – now capture and store rainwater, significantly improving groundwater recharge and reducing seasonal flooding. These water bodies are more than just functional; they are symbols of resilience and renewal.
“Having lived in Gurugram for over 25 years, I’ve seen the toll of water scarcity,” shared Akshay Saxena, Vice President, General Counsel at MCM India, and ESG Environmental Working Group Lead. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see water flowing into this area during the monsoons. Our interventions are making a real difference.”
A Community-Centered Vision
The project’s impact was recognized by former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who praised its environmental and social contributions during the site’s inauguration.
Building on this success, we expanded the restoration to an adjacent four-acre plot previously used for construction waste. A thoughtfully designed dog-leg staircase now connects the elevated land to the main site, while an integrated drainage system channels rainwater into lower swales, enhancing the area’s ecological resilience.
Today, the space is more than a conservation site – it’s a community destination. With seating areas, a yoga square, picnic spots, and decked viewing platforms, the site invites people to reconnect with nature in a peaceful, inclusive setting.
Sustainability That Lasts
Our commitment doesn’t end with restoration. The site is maintained year-round by skilled teams, and we continue to explore alternative water sources to ensure long-term sustainability.
This initiative is more than a project – it’s a model for how businesses can lead with purpose, act with integrity, and create lasting value for the communities they serve.
We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in Gurugram and even prouder of what it represents: a future where corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
