Govardhan Ecovillage is a pioneer in sustainable living and has received several national and international awards for its efforts. The ecovillage follows the principles of zero waste management, renewable energy generation, water conservation and organic farming. Some of the notable features of the ecovillage are: Solar panels that provide 70% of the electricity needs Biogas plant that converts cow dung into cooking gas Rainwater harvesting system that collects and stores 10 million liters of water annually Vermicomposting unit that produces organic fertilizer from food waste Organic farm that grows over 40 varieties of crops without chemical pesticides or fertilizers Cow shelter that houses over 200 cows of indigenous breeds Earth construction that uses natural materials such as mud, bamboo and stone Govardhan Ecovillage is not only a place for guests but also a home for 350 residents who live as families, students, volunteers and monks. The residents follow a simple and spiritual lifestyle based on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and practice yoga, meditation and service. The residents also engage in various social welfare activities that aim to uplift the neighboring tribal villages. Some of the projects undertaken by the ecovillage are: Eye care program that has treated over 100,000 cataract patients Primary health center that provides free medical services to all Innovative education program that has reached over 9,000 students Organic farming program that has trained over 1,300 farmers Water resource program that has supported over 7,000 communities Entrepreneurial program that has empowered over 300 women self-help groups Skills development program that has enrolled over 70 students Forest land cultivation program that has benefited over 50 landless families