About Us
WELL Labs is transforming water systems at scale across India through research, partnerships, and collective action. We take on audacious challenges, tackling complex problems by designing comprehensive solutions that provide large social returns.
Our work is science-led and community-focused. We address the interconnections between water, environment, land, and livelihoods. To create impact at scale, we embed solutions within governments, work with the private sector, and collaborate with civil society and active citizens. Based in Bengaluru, WELL Labs is part of the Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR) Society.
Research
Blogs
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Closing the Water Gap: Why Raichur Needs Systems Transformation, Not Fragmented Efforts
Despite massive investments, Raichur’s agriculture continues to be defined by water inequities. What is needed now is a systems transformation that aligns infrastructure, governance, labour, inputs, and markets into a coherent whole.
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Green Manuring: A Sustainable Agricultural Practice to Improve Crop Productivity
Continuous cultivation and heavy reliance on chemical fertilisers have severely degraded soil systems. Green manuring offers a natural, sustainable alternative to restore the soil health and improve crop quality and yield.
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Three Years of Rural Futures: Reimagining Water, Land, and Livelihoods
The Rural Futures programme was designed to answer a deceptively simple question: how can we increase rural income without degrading land and water quality? As WELL Labs turns 3, we look back at the programme’s journey and impact across Karnataka’s Raichur and Chikkaballapur districts.
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When Power on Paper Isn’t Power in Reality: Women’s Leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions
Despite many women holding elected positions in Panchayats, the decision-making power largely rests with their male relatives. Our training sessions showed that reservation alone does not ensure empowerment; it also requires knowledge and solidarity.
In the News
Bengaluru can recycle 60% of wastewater to ease crisis, finds study
Published in The New Indian Express
Delayed Rains Bring Water Shortages to Cities and Farmers
Published in Associated Press
STP Upkeep Still Requires Human Intervention, Says Expert
Published in Deccan Herald
Partners





















