HRDS INDIA and Netherlands-Based Arkadis Join Hands to Explore Development Projects in Northeast India
New Delhi : HRDS INDIA is moving towards a strategic collaboration with Arkadis, a Netherlands-based organisation, to advance sustainable development initiatives in India, with a special focus on Northeast India. The broader international development programme being pursued by HRDS INDIA envisages up to €1 billion in proposed investments and development initiatives, including a major focus on sustainable waste management.
The proposed collaboration will bring together HRDS INDIA’s grassroots presence and implementation experience with European expertise in engineering, design, infrastructure, sustainability and project development.
The cooperation follows a meeting in Amsterdam, Netherlands, between Shri Aji Krishnan , Founder and Secretary, HRDS INDIA, and Hans Dekker, Chief Operating Officer of Arkadis. Following the meeting, Arkadis formally expressed interest in developing a long-term strategic relationship with HRDS INDIA, recognising its development work, local presence and commitment to underserved communities.
The proposed areas of cooperation include sustainable and affordable housing, tribal housing, community infrastructure, soil testing, agricultural development , sustainable construction, rural development, infrastructure planning, climate resilience and environmental solutions.
One potential area of cooperation is HRDS INDIA’s Tribal Housing Project, which aims to develop affordable and environmentally responsible housing for tribal and rural communities. Arkadis could contribute technical expertise in sustainable construction, infrastructure planning, design and project development.
As the next step, Arkadis has expressed interest in sending a team of associates and professional representatives to the HRDS INDIA headquarters in New Delhi. The proposed visit will provide an opportunity to review ongoing and planned projects, assess technical requirements and identify specific areas for cooperation.
The broader proposed development programme will also focus on sustainable waste management, recycling, improved waste handling and environmentally responsible practices, alongside rural development, affordable housing, environmental management and community infrastructure, particularly in Northeast India.
The organisations will also explore potential pilot projects to assess the feasibility of longer-term programmes and develop scalable solutions with measurable benefits for local communities.
Speaking about the proposed cooperation, Shri Krishnan said, “HRDS INDIA believes that meaningful development comes from combining grassroots experience with international expertise, technology and strong partnerships. Our objective is to bring practical and sustainable solutions to communities in areas such as waste management, rural development, tribal housing and community infrastructure. This international cooperation can help create inclusive development opportunities and address the specific needs of communities across India, particularly in the Northeast.”
