#gem

Star Citizens

The Day Indian Cinema Lost Its Greatest Storyteller : But the World Still Follows His Lens

In the bustling lanes of Kolkata, a young boy named Manik grew up surrounded by ink, paper, and imagination. Born on May 2, 1921, into a family of artists and thinkers, Satyajit Ray inherited storytelling not as a skill, but as a way of life. His father, Sukumar Ray, was a pioneer of children’s literature, while his grandfather, Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, laid the foundation of a creative legacy that would echo across generations. But Ray’s journey into cinema was not immediate. He studied economics, worked in advertising, and designed book covers with remarkable finesse. It was only after encountering global cinema especially Jean Renoir and the Italian masterpiece Bicycle Thieves by Vittorio De Sica that something shifted. He realized cinema could be more than entertainment; it could be truth.The Birth of a New Language of CinemaIn 1955, Ray released Pather Panchali, a film that didn’t just mark his debut it redefined Indian cinema. Shot with limited resources and immense patience, the film told a simple story of a rural boy named Apu. Yet, its emotional depth resonated across borders. It went on to win international acclaim, including honors at the Cannes Film Festival. What followed was the iconic The Apu Trilogy, completed with Aparajito and Apur Sansar. These films didn’t rely on spectacle or dramatic excess. Instead, they focused on life as it is fragile, beautiful, and deeply human. Through Apu’s journey, Ray quietly connected audiences worldwide to the shared emotions of growth, loss, and hope.A Storyteller Beyond BoundariesRay was never just a filmmaker. He was a complete artist. He wrote scripts, composed music, designed posters, and even created fonts. His films like Charulata, The Music Room, and The Big City explored themes of loneliness, changing societies, and the inner lives of ordinary people. Unlike many filmmakers of his time, Ray didn’t chase grandeur. He found stories in silence, in glances, in everyday struggles. His characters were not heroes or villains they were people. And that’s what made his cinema timeless. Even global legends like Akira Kurosawa admired him deeply. Kurosawa once said that not watching Ray’s films was like living in the world without seeing the sun or the moon. That admiration crossed continents, influencing directors like Martin Scorsese and Christopher Nolan.Over a career spanning four decades, Ray directed 36 films and received countless honors. Among them were India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, and the prestigious Academy Honorary Award in 1992. Even as he lay ill, he accepted the Oscar via video message, calling it the greatest achievement of his career. He also received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and France’s Legion of Honour, proving that his art belonged not just to India, but to the world.The Day the Lens Fell SilentOn April 23, 1992, Satyajit Ray passed away in Kolkata at the age of 70. The city came to a standstill. Thousands gathered outside his home, not just to mourn a filmmaker, but to say goodbye to a storyteller who had quietly become a part of their lives. His death marked the end of an era but not the end of his influence. Even decades later, Ray’s films feel alive. In an age of fast cuts and loud storytelling, his work reminds us of the power of simplicity. His cinema teaches us to observe to truly see people, emotions, and life. For a young filmmaker today, Ray is not just inspiration; he is a benchmark. For audiences, he is a reminder that the most powerful stories are often the most honest ones. There is something deeply human about his work. You don’t just watch a Satyajit Ray film you feel it. You carry it with you.A Legacy That Lives OnToday, institutions, festivals, and filmmakers continue to celebrate his legacy. The International Film Festival of India even renamed its lifetime achievement honor after him, ensuring that new generations remember the man who gave Indian cinema its global voice. But perhaps his greatest legacy lies elsewhere in the quiet moments his films capture. A child running through fields. A woman looking out of a window. A man searching for meaning. These moments are simple. Yet through Ray’s lens, they become unforgettable. And that is why, even though Indian cinema lost its greatest storyteller on that April day, the world still follows his lens frame by frame, emotion by emotion, story by story.Complete Filmography Table of Satyajit RayYearFilm TitleTypeLanguageNotes1955Pather PanchaliFeatureBengaliFirst film; part of Apu Trilogy1956AparajitoFeatureBengaliApu Trilogy1959Apur SansarFeatureBengaliApu Trilogy finale1958Parash PatharFeatureBengaliSatirical comedy1958Jalsaghar (The Music Room)FeatureBengaliCritically acclaimed1960DeviFeatureBengaliSocial drama1961Rabindranath TagoreDocumentaryBengaliBiographical film1961Teen KanyaFeatureBengaliAnthology (3 stories)1962KanchenjunghaFeatureBengaliFirst original screenplay1962AbhijanFeatureBengaliDrama1963Mahanagar (The Big City)FeatureBengaliUrban realism1964CharulataFeatureBengaliOne of his finest works1965Kapurush O MahapurushFeatureBengaliDual stories1966Nayak (The Hero)FeatureBengaliPsychological drama1967ChiriyakhanaFeatureBengaliDetective film1969Goopy Gyne Bagha ByneFeatureBengaliFantasy musical1970Aranyer Din RatriFeatureBengaliSocial drama1970PratidwandiFeatureBengaliCalcutta Trilogy1971SeemabaddhaFeatureBengaliCalcutta Trilogy1975Jana AranyaFeatureBengaliCalcutta Trilogy1971SikkimDocumentaryEnglishPolitical documentary1974Sonar KellaFeatureBengaliFeluda detective film1977Shatranj Ke KhilariFeatureHindi/UrduHistorical drama1978Joi Baba FelunathFeatureBengaliFeluda sequel1980Hirak Rajar DesheFeatureBengaliGoopy-Bagha sequel1981PikooShort FilmBengaliShort drama1981SadgatiFeatureHindiBased on Premchand story1984Ghare BaireFeatureBengaliTagore adaptation1989GanashatruFeatureBengaliSocial/political1990Shakha ProshakhaFeatureBengaliFamily drama1991AgantukFeatureBengaliFinal film

23 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

Pradyot Voleti Turned Bamboo Hoops into Big Dreams : How One Man Is Rewriting India’s Basketball Story

In a country where cricket dominates headlines and playgrounds, it takes extraordinary vision to nurture another sport from the grassroots. Pradyot Voleti is one such visionary who chose an unconventional path, turning his lifelong love for basketball into a mission that is changing lives. What began with just four children, two bamboo poles, and a makeshift hoop in a village in Uttar Pradesh has now grown into the Dribble Academy Foundation, impacting over 3,000 children across multiple villages. His journey is not just about sport; it is about hope, opportunity, and rewriting destinies.From Player to Purpose-Driven MentorBasketball has always been central to Pradyot’s life. From his early days representing Mayo College, Ajmer, to playing at the Under-19 level for Delhi, the game shaped his identity. Even as he pursued higher education in Mumbai and later a Master’s degree in clinical psychology in Delhi, basketball remained his constant companion. But unlike many who drift away from sports due to career pressures, Pradyot chose to dive deeper. Instead of following a conventional career path, he asked a simple yet powerful question: how can basketball be used to change lives in India?Learning from the Best to Build the FutureDetermined to elevate his understanding, Pradyot immersed himself in learning. He spent countless hours studying basketball drills and training methods, using digital platforms to refine his knowledge. His journey took a significant turn in 2014 when he trained at the Elev8 Sports Institute in Florida. There, he learned from globally renowned trainers like Ganon Baker and Cody Toppert, gaining insights into professional-level coaching and player development. His exposure extended to observing top college basketball programs like Stanford University and the University of Connecticut, as well as working with the Northern Arizona Suns in the NBA G-League system. These experiences gave him a global perspective, which he later brought back to India with a clear mission.Building Something from NothingArmed with knowledge and determination, Pradyot returned to India to create something meaningful. In 2015, he laid the foundation for what would become the Dribble Academy Foundation. The early days were humble—just a dirt court in Gejha village, a basic hoop, and a handful of children. Among them were his driver’s daughters, symbolizing how deeply rooted his mission was in community upliftment. What he lacked in infrastructure, he made up for with passion and consistency. Slowly, word spread, and more children joined, drawn not just by the sport but by the sense of belonging and possibility it offered.Beyond Basketball: A Holistic ApproachWhat sets the Dribble Academy Foundation apart is its holistic vision. While basketball is the medium, the goal is much larger. Children are not only trained in the sport but also equipped with essential life skills such as English communication, digital literacy, public speaking, and the arts. This integrated approach ensures that students are prepared for opportunities beyond the court. It recognizes that true development is not limited to physical ability but includes emotional strength, confidence, and intellectual growth.The impact of Pradyot’s work is best seen in the stories of the children themselves. Many come from underprivileged backgrounds, where access to quality education and sports facilities is limited. Through DAF, these children have found a pathway to a better future. Several have represented India at international platforms like the Jr. NBA World Championship in Orlando, while others have secured full sports scholarships at prestigious universities. Most of them are first-generation college-goers, breaking cycles of limitation and opening doors for their families. It is about parents who begin to see new possibilities for their children. It is about young girls in rural India stepping onto a basketball court and discovering confidence, strength, and independence. Keeping the Spirit of Sport Alive in IndiaIn a nation where infrastructure and awareness for sports like basketball are still developing, individuals like Pradyot Voleti play a vital role in keeping the spirit alive. They challenge norms, build ecosystems from scratch, and prove that talent exists everywhere it only needs the right platform. By focusing on rural and semi-urban areas, DAF is tapping into a vast, often overlooked pool of potential, creating a new generation of athletes who can compete at national and global levels.A Vision for the FutureLooking ahead, the goal is ambitious yet inspiring to empower rural children through basketball. It is a vision that goes beyond numbers, aiming to create a movement where sport becomes a tool for social transformation. With each passing year, the foundation moves closer to this dream, fueled by dedication, transparency, and measurable impact. In the end, this is not just a story about basketball. It is about courage, purpose, and the power of one individual to spark change. Through his work, Pradyot Voleti has shown that sports can be a bridge to education, equality, and empowerment. His journey reminds us that sometimes, all it takes to change lives is a ball, a hoop, and the belief that every child deserves a chance to dream.

21 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

Vidya Kunj: How an IAS Officer Turned a Park into a Living Library in Alwar

In a time when screens dominate attention and quiet reading spaces are slowly fading, a refreshing idea has taken root in Alwar. It is not just a new facility but a vision, one that brings together nature, learning, and community. Named “Vidya Kunj,” this initiative is Rajasthan’s first park library, thoughtfully introduced by Artika Shukla. More than a structure, it is an experience. A place where sunlight filters through glass walls, greenery surrounds every corner, and the simple act of reading feels deeply connected to nature. As we reflect on her journey, this initiative becomes a powerful example of how leadership can shape spaces that nurture both minds and hearts.The Idea Behind Vidya KunjLocated within Buddha Vihar at the Urban Improvement Trust headquarters, Vidya Kunj is not a conventional library. It is designed to be open, inviting, and alive. The glass-wrapped structure allows readers to remain connected with the outside world, even as they immerse themselves in books. This unique concept reflects a deeper understanding of human needs. Reading is not just an intellectual activity; it is also emotional. When combined with the calmness of nature, it becomes even more enriching. The library accommodates over 50 readers at a time and is thoughtfully divided into sections for children, youth, and general readers. Parents can sit inside and read while keeping an eye on their children playing outside, creating a space that feels both safe and inclusive.Building a Space That Belongs to the PeopleConstructed at a cost of ₹45 lakh and housing around 5,000 books, Vidya Kunj is already being seen as a model for future initiatives. But what truly sets it apart is its community-driven approach. Artika Shukla has invited citizens to become a part of this journey. Through a 15-day donation drive, people are encouraged to contribute books from their homes, turning the library into a shared treasure of knowledge. This idea transforms the space from being government-owned to people-owned. It builds a sense of belonging, where every book carries a story not just from its pages, but from the person who donated it.Leadership Rooted in EmpathyThe vision behind Vidya Kunj reflects the personality and approach of Artika Shukla herself. A 2016-batch IAS officer, she is known for her people-first governance style. Originally from Varanasi, she began her journey in the field of medicine, completing her MBBS from Maulana Azad Medical College. However, her desire to serve society on a larger scale led her to civil services, where she secured an impressive All India Rank 4 in her very first attempt in the UPSC examination. Her background as a doctor perhaps shaped her understanding of well-being—not just physical, but mental and emotional. Vidya Kunj reflects this understanding, offering a space that heals through knowledge and nature.Recognition and Wider ImpactThe initiative has already received praise from senior officials, including V. Srinivas, who described it as a “laudable initiative.” Such recognition highlights its potential to inspire similar projects across the state and beyond. In a country where access to quality reading spaces is still limited in many areas, Vidya Kunj offers a simple yet powerful solution. It shows that libraries do not have to be confined to closed rooms; they can be open, vibrant, and deeply connected to their surroundings. At its core, Vidya Kunj is about rediscovering the joy of reading. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to pause and engage with a book has become increasingly difficult. This space encourages people to slow down. To sit under natural light, hear the rustle of leaves, and immerse themselves in stories and ideas. It reminds us that learning is not just about information; it is about experience.A Model for the FutureAs cities continue to grow and urban spaces become more crowded, the need for such thoughtful initiatives becomes even more important. Vidya Kunj offers a model that is both simple and scalable. It shows that meaningful change does not always require complex solutions. Sometimes, it begins with a clear idea and the intent to make a difference. In the quiet corners of this park library, where books meet nature and ideas take root, lies a simple yet powerful message that knowledge, when shared and nurtured, has the power to transform communities. And sometimes, all it takes is one thoughtful idea to begin that transformation.

15 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

When the World Looked Away, Tarun Mishra Stepped In to Rescue the Forgotten and Give Them Dignity

In a world often driven by personal success and fast-paced ambitions, the story of Tarun Mishra feels both rare and deeply moving. Known for his tireless efforts in rescuing homeless, abandoned, and elderly individuals, Tarun has become a symbol of quiet compassion in action. As the founder of the Help Drive Foundation, based in Surat, he has dedicated his life to those society often forgets: the people living on pavements, under bridges, and in isolation. But what makes his story truly powerful is not just the scale of his work but the sincerity behind it.Beginnings That Shaped a PurposeTarun’s journey began far from recognition and social media fame. Originally from Bihar, he moved to Delhi at the age of five with his family. Life was modest but stable until his father lost his job as a pharmacist. The family faced financial struggles that forced young Tarun to grow up quickly. As a sixth-grade student, he took on responsibility beyond his years, selling religious books near a temple in Sarojini Nagar to support his family. This phase of life didn’t just teach him survival—it gave him a deep understanding of struggle, dignity, and resilience.Education, Struggles, and a Turning PointDespite hardships, Tarun excelled academically. He completed his schooling with a first division and even cleared an engineering entrance exam—an achievement many would celebrate as a gateway to a stable future. However, reality presented a different challenge. With limited financial resources and no place to stay near his college in Delhi, Tarun found himself living in a shelter home. For many, such a situation might feel like a setback. For Tarun, it became a turning point. Inside those shelter homes, he witnessed human suffering up close—abandoned elderly people, homeless individuals, and people with no one to care for them. Instead of distancing himself, he chose to engage. He began volunteering, helping others even when he himself had very little. It was here that his purpose began to take shape.The Birth of Help Drive FoundationIn 2019, Tarun formally established the Help Drive Foundation, turning his compassion into structured action. What started as a small initiative soon grew into a full-fledged mission. Today, the organization operates 22 shelter homes across Gujarat, providing food, medical care, and safe living conditions to thousands of people in need. But the foundation’s work goes beyond basic necessities. It focuses on restoring dignity—something often stripped away from those living on the streets. Tarun and his team actively rescue people from roadsides, reunite families, and ensure that every individual is treated with respect.The Reality of Social WorkWhile his work is inspiring, Tarun remains honest about its challenges. As he puts it, not every effort leads to success. Many individuals living on the streets are hesitant to move into shelter homes. Years of hardship can lead to distrust or a sense of attachment to their current way of life. Yet, Tarun persists. His approach is not forceful; it is patient, understanding, and rooted in empathy. He believes in trying again and again, knowing that even one life changed is worth the effort.Social Media: A Tool for ChangeIn today’s digital age, Tarun has effectively used social media to amplify his mission. With over 1.5 million followers, his videos and posts showcase real stories of rescues, reunions, and moments of care. These aren’t just content pieces; they are windows into lives often ignored. Through these platforms, he has inspired countless people to contribute, volunteer, or simply become more compassionate in their daily lives. What truly sets Tarun’s work apart is the emotional connection he builds with those he helps. When he visits his shelter homes, children run towards him with excitement, and elderly residents greet him with warmth and affection. These moments reflect something deeper than service—they reflect trust, love, and belonging. For many residents, these shelters are not just places to stay. They are spaces where they feel seen, valued, and cared for. In a society where loneliness is becoming increasingly common, this sense of human connection is invaluable.A Lesson for All of UsTarun Mishra’s journey challenges a common belief that helping others requires wealth or extraordinary resources. His life proves otherwise. What truly matters is intent. The willingness to act. The courage to care. From selling books as a child to managing 22 shelter homes, his story shows that even the smallest beginnings can lead to meaningful change. In the end, Tarun Mishra’s story is not just about social work; it is about humanity. It reminds us that behind every person on the street is a story, a past, and a need for dignity. And sometimes, all it takes is one person to step forward and make a difference. In a world that often moves too fast to notice, Tarun chose to stop, look, and help. And in doing so, he didn’t just change lives; he restored hope.

2 Apr 2026

Star Citizens

Ground Zero to Governance Queen: How Sahila Heer is Changing Bihar One Decision at a Time

During Nitish Kumar’s Samriddhi Yatra in Buxar, one officer who quietly captured attention was Sahila Heer. Seen actively accompanying the Chief Minister and engaging closely with on-ground developments, she has emerged as a symbol of proactive governance. Currently serving as the District Magistrate of Buxar, Sahila Heer has built a reputation as a sharp, efficient, and people-centric administrator whose work speaks louder than words.Roots in Punjab, Dreams for Public ServiceBorn and raised in Jalandhar, Punjab, Sahila Heer comes from a family deeply rooted in discipline and education. Her father, a retired Deputy Chief Engineer at Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, and her mother, a retired principal, played a significant role in shaping her values. She completed her schooling at MGN School in Jalandhar and later pursued a degree in Electronics and Instrumentation from the Thapar Institute. Her journey to becoming an IAS officer was not easy. After multiple attempts and years of dedicated preparation, she cleared the civil services examination in 2018. Inspired by leaders like A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and B. R. Ambedkar, she chose public service as a way to create meaningful impact, especially in areas like education, women’s empowerment, and youth development.Building a Strong Administrative FoundationAfter being allotted the Bihar cadre, Sahila Heer began her administrative journey as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Narkatiaganj. She later held key positions in districts like Saharsa and Purnia, where she handled crucial administrative responsibilities. These early roles helped her understand grassroots challenges, shaping her practical and solution-oriented approach to governance. Her experience across districts laid the groundwork for her future leadership roles, enabling her to connect with people at the ground level and address real-life issues effectively.Transforming Bihar’s Education SystemOne of Sahila Heer’s most impactful contributions came during her tenure as Director of Primary Education in Bihar. At a time when the education system faced challenges of inefficiency and lack of transparency, she introduced reforms that brought clarity and accountability. She implemented a transparent teacher transfer system, eliminating the need for recommendations and ensuring fairness. Long-pending promotions were cleared, giving teachers renewed motivation and opening doors for fresh recruitment. She also strengthened the grievance redressal system, ensuring that complaints were resolved efficiently without requiring teachers to travel long distances. Her work in the mid-day meal programme further showcased her administrative capability. By streamlining operations and ensuring daily data monitoring, she reduced irregularities and increased transparency. These reforms not only improved the system but also restored trust among educators and stakeholders, leading many to demand her return to the education department.Leadership in Buxar: Governance at the Ground LevelNow serving as the District Magistrate of Buxar, Sahila Heer oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including law and order, revenue management, disaster response, and implementation of welfare schemes. From MNREGA and PM-Kisan to housing and pension schemes, she ensures that government initiatives reach the people effectively. Her role also involves managing election processes, maintaining land records, and addressing public grievances. Known for her hands-on approach, she actively engages with local communities, listens to their concerns, and works towards practical solutions. Her presence during the Samriddhi Yatra highlighted her commitment to staying connected with the ground reality rather than relying solely on reports.A Partnership in Public ServiceSahila Heer’s journey is also supported by a shared commitment to service within her family. Her husband, Nitin Kumar Singh, is also an IAS officer from the 2018 batch and currently serves as the District Commissioner of Kaimur. Together, they represent a new generation of administrators dedicated to public welfare and governance. Their parallel roles in different districts reflect a unique partnership where both contribute to the larger goal of nation-building through administration. Beyond her achievements and positions, Sahila Heer's journey from a student in Jalandhar to a respected IAS officer in Bihar is one of perseverance, discipline, and purpose. Her parents often recall her determination and positive energy from a young age, qualities that continue to define her work today. For many young aspirants, especially women, her story serves as inspiration. It shows that success in civil services is not just about clearing an exam but about consistently working towards creating change. Her ability to balance efficiency with empathy makes her not just an administrator but a leader people can trust.A Benchmark for Modern GovernanceSahila Heer’s work reflects what modern administration should look like—transparent, accountable, and people-focused. Whether it is reforming education systems or managing district-level governance, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving lives. Her growing recognition in Bihar is not just because of her position but because of the impact she creates. In a system often criticised for inefficiency, officers like her stand out as examples of what dedicated public service can achieve. From transforming Bihar’s education system to leading district administration in Buxar, Sahila Heer continues to make a meaningful difference. Her journey is a reminder that true leadership lies in action, not just authority. As she continues her work on the ground, inspiring both citizens and future administrators, Sahila Heer represents a hopeful vision of governance one where dedication and transparency come together to create lasting change.

27 Mar 2026

Star Citizens

Educate Girls Founder Safeena Husain Named TIME Women of the Year 2026

In a powerful moment for India’s education and social impact sector, Safeena Husain, founder of the nonprofit Educate Girls, has been named among TIME magazine’s Women of the Year 2026. The prestigious list celebrates 16 global leaders working to create a more equitable world—and Husain’s inclusion shines an international spotlight on a mission rooted deep in India’s rural heartlands.For Husain, the recognition is not just a personal milestone. It reflects nearly two decades of relentless work to bring out-of-school girls back into classrooms, transforming communities that once saw education for girls as a distant dream.Safeena Husain said that she was honoured and humbled to be named alongside such trailblazing leaders, adding that the recognition brought attention to India’s grassroots movement for girls’ education and highlighted the determination of girls who are working to shape their own futures.The Movement Called Educate GirlsSafeena Husain founded Educate Girls in 2007 with a bold and simple mission: ensure that no girl is denied the right to education.What began in just 50 villages in Rajasthan has grown into one of India’s most influential education movements. Today, the organisation works across more than 25,000 villages in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, mobilising communities and local volunteers to identify and enrol girls who have dropped out of school.Through innovative partnerships with governments and communities, Educate Girls has helped over two million girls return to education, a remarkable achievement in regions where poverty, gender bias and early marriage often disrupt schooling.The organisation also pioneered the world’s first Development Impact Bond in education, an innovative financing model that exceeded its target outcomes when completed in 2018.A Landmark Year of AchievementsThe TIME recognition crowns what has already been a remarkable period for Husain and her organisation.In 2025, Educate Girls became the first Indian nonprofit to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award, widely regarded as Asia’s highest honour for community leadership. The award recognised the organisation’s transformative impact in bridging gender gaps in education.Earlier, Educate Girls had also been selected as the first Asian organisation supported by the Audacious Project, a social-impact funding initiative under the aegis of TED. The ambitious goal set under the project was to educate 1.5 million out-of-school girls—a target the organisation achieved in 2025, before continuing to expand its reach.Husain also completed a Rockefeller Foundation residency, during which she wrote her book Every Last Girl: A Journey to Educate India’s Forgotten Daughters, published in January.A Mission Born from Personal ExperienceBehind Husain’s work lies a deeply personal story.She grew up facing poverty, violence and interruptions in her own education. Those early experiences shaped her understanding of what it means for a girl to be left behind.Determined to change that narrative, Husain became the first in her family to study overseas and later worked for a decade in the nonprofit sector in San Francisco. But her calling eventually brought her back to India.“From day one till today, our focus has been on the out-of-school girl,” she has said. “That’s my lived experience. I know what it feels like to be left behind.”The Road Ahead: Reaching Every Last GirlDespite the progress, the challenge remains enormous.According to global education estimates, 133 million girls worldwide are still out of school. In India alone, millions continue to face barriers ranging from poverty to social norms.Husain’s vision is ambitious yet clear. By 2035, Educate Girls aims to reach 10 million students, ensuring that every girl has access to education and the power to shape her own future.“Every girl wants to go to school,” Husain often says. “No girl dreams of being left behind.”As the world celebrates her inclusion in TIME Women of the Year 2026, Safeena Husain’s story stands as a reminder that real change often begins quietly—in classrooms, villages and communities where a single educated girl can rewrite the destiny of generations.

5 Mar 2026

Star Citizens

Chinu Kwatra: Mocked for Picking Trash, Now a Comic Book Climate Hero

On the shores of Mumbai, where waves once brought more plastic than peace, a young man bent down to pick up garbage—and in that simple act, began a revolution. People laughed. Some called him “Kachrewala,” the garbage man. But while the world mocked, he kept moving. Today, that same man stands recognised as one of India’s emerging climate champions. Chinu Kwatra has now been featured in India’s Emerging Climate Super Heroes, a comic themed coffee table book by The House Of Mosaic. The honour is more than symbolic. It captures a nine-year-long journey of grit, purpose, and relentless environmental activism that turned ridicule into respect. His story reminds us that heroes are not born in spotlights; they are built in silence, in sweat, and sometimes in sand filled with plastic waste.The Beach That Changed EverythingAt Mumbai’s Dadar beach, where tides once deposited heaps of plastic bottles, wrappers, and marine debris, Kwatra started something that many believed would not last a week. What began as a single clean-up mission soon became a weekly ritual. For over seven years, he has led consistent beach clean-up drives, mobilising volunteers who now proudly call themselves “Beach Warriors.” Consistency is what separates intention from impact. Week after week, under the harsh sun and unpredictable monsoon skies, he and his team cleared tonnes of waste, ensuring that the coastline could breathe again. These drives were not just about aesthetics. They were about marine life, about reducing microplastics, and about building environmental consciousness in urban India. In a city that rarely slows down, Kwatra chose to stop, bend and clean. That act of bending down symbolised humility, not defeat. And slowly, the laughter faded.The Birth of Khushiyaan FoundationBehind every sustainable movement stands structure and vision. Armed with dual MBA degrees and a clear mission, Kwatra founded the Khushiyaan Foundation a non-profit organisation built on the pillars of compassion, youth power, and measurable impact. The foundation is driven by a dynamic team of young volunteers whose energy fuels multiple community initiatives. For Kwatra, leadership was never about standing in front; it was about building a team that believes in collective change. Projects like Roti Ghar provide food to underprivileged children and families. Project Pathshala focuses on free education for children living in slums, ensuring that poverty does not steal their future. MARD works toward empowering communities and addressing social stigmas. Each initiative reflects a simple philosophy: social change must touch both the environment and humanity. This holistic approach sets him apart. Cleaning beaches addresses climate concerns; feeding children addresses hunger; educating them addresses inequality. It is climate action blended with compassion.The Menstrual Man Breaking TaboosIf cleaning beaches challenged environmental neglect, addressing menstruation challenged social silence. Kwatra is also known as the “Menstrual Man," a title earned through courage and commitment. In many parts of India, menstruation is still surrounded by stigma and misinformation. Women and girls often lack access to hygienic products, leading to health risks and missed school days. Through seminars and awareness sessions, Kwatra initiated open conversations about menstrual health, encouraging society to speak without shame. His team manufactures biodegradable sanitary napkins, ensuring both hygiene and environmental responsibility. These are distributed to women who remain disconnected from proper menstrual practices. This initiative bridges two crucial issues: sustainability and dignity. It takes courage for a man to step into a subject society often labels as “women’s talk.” But Kwatra did not step in for attention. He stepped in because silence harms.A Soldier’s Dream, A Citizen’s ServiceAs a young man, Kwatra once aspired to join the Indian Army and serve the nation in uniform. Life, however, had other plans. Instead of serving at the border, he chose to serve within the community. In many ways, his mission remains the same: protecting the nation. Only the battlefield changed. His war is against pollution, ignorance, hunger, and stigma. His weapons are gloves, garbage bags, notebooks, biodegradable pads, and unwavering belief. Service does not always require a uniform. Sometimes, it requires uncomfortable conversations and consistent action.From Ground Zero to Comic Book HeroBeing featured in India’s Emerging Climate Super Heroes is not just a personal achievement. It symbolises a shift in how society defines heroism. The comic format makes his story accessible to younger generations, proving that climate action is not boring or distant; it is dynamic and urgent. Citizens who flip through those pages may see a man holding a trash bag instead of a shield. And perhaps that image will inspire them more than any fictional character ever could. Kwatra’s journey teaches an important lesson: purpose outlives mockery. When he was called “Kachrewala,” he could have stopped. Instead, he chose purpose over pride and action over applause.

2 Mar 2026

Star Citizens

The Little Voice That Echoed Through the United Nations : Roohi Mohazzab’s Historic UN Moment

The grand halls of the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok are accustomed to seasoned diplomats, policy experts, and global leaders. Yet on 11–12 February 2026, a small figure with a powerful voice captured the attention of the international community. Six-year-old Roohi Mohazzab from Kerala, India, stood at the podium as a keynote speaker at the Global Conference on Education for a Sustainable Future (GCE 2026). Her presence was not symbolic. It was historic. At an age when most children are learning their first lessons in school, Roohi was delivering a message to global policymakers: children are not passive observers of climate change; they are active guardians of the planet.A Historic Invitation to the Global StageRoohi, a first-grade student at Common Ground International Academy in Kozhikode, was officially invited as a Keynote Speaker and SDG Impact Awardee at the conference. Organized by the UNESCO Youth Education Research Center in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Council, which holds Special Consultative Status with ECOSOC, the event brought together global stakeholders focused on building a sustainable future through education. The significance of this platform cannot be overstated. The United Nations Asia-Pacific Headquarters in Bangkok serves as a critical regional hub for policy dialogue, sustainable development discussions, and international cooperation. For a six-year-old from Kerala to be recognized at such a forum reflects not only her individual impact but also a broader shift in how youth voices are valued in global conversations. Her keynote message resonated across the hall: “Children are not just the future; they are the present guardians of Mother Earth.” It was a statement simple in words, yet profound in meaning.Launching “The Children Movement for Climate Compassion”One of the most symbolic moments of the conference was Roohi’s formal launch of her global initiative, “The Children Movement for Climate Compassion.” Introduced on the UN platform, the foundation seeks to nurture environmental responsibility and civic awareness among children worldwide. The idea behind the initiative is transformative. Instead of waiting for adulthood to engage in climate policy and sustainability efforts, children are encouraged to see themselves as stakeholders from the very beginning. Through awareness campaigns, community engagement, and environmental education, the movement envisions classrooms becoming incubators of climate leadership. This initiative reflects a growing understanding that sustainable development must be intergenerational. Climate change affects today’s children most directly, making their inclusion in policy discussions both logical and necessary.A Young Leader with Grassroots ImpactRoohi’s recognition at the UN did not emerge overnight. She has already been widely acknowledged as one of the youngest environmental advocates in the world, leading impactful grassroots initiatives that combine ambition with action. Her CounTree Project, launched on World Environment Day 2025, aims to plant one crore (10 million) trees through 10 lakh school micro-nurseries. By involving schools directly, the initiative transforms environmental responsibility into a daily learning experience. Students nurture saplings, monitor growth, and understand the science and significance of reforestation firsthand. Kerala has long been recognized for its literacy rate, environmental consciousness, and social development initiatives. Roohi’s global recognition adds another proud chapter to the state’s legacy. Her presence at a UNESCO-linked forum reinforces India’s growing contribution to youth-led climate advocacy.A Future Led by Young GuardiansAs Roohi stepped away from the podium in Bangkok, the applause was not merely for a speech well delivered. It was for a new vision of leadership—inclusive, compassionate, and fearless. Her story stands as a powerful reminder that the fight for sustainability is not reserved for adults. It belongs to every generation. When children are given platforms, support, and trust, they can influence conversations at the highest levels. At six years old, Roohi Mohazzab has shown the world that climate compassion begins early and that even the smallest voice can echo across global halls. And in that echo lies hope for a greener, more responsible future.

18 Feb 2026

Star Citizens

India’s Proud Moment: Rouble Nagi Wins the ‘Nobel of Teaching’ for Educating the Forgotten

Teaching is the quiet profession behind every loud success. Doctors, engineers, artists, scientists, and leaders—none exist without a teacher standing somewhere in the background, shaping minds with patience and belief. It is often called the most respected job in the world, not because of awards or applause, but because it plants seeds that grow long after the lesson ends. The world paused to honour that truth. At the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Indian educator and social reformer Rouble Nagi was awarded the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026, often described as the “Nobel of Teaching.” Presented by Dubai’s Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the award recognised a woman who turned walls into classrooms and forgotten children into learners.A Historic Moment for India on a Global StageMumbai-based Rouble Nagi became India’s latest global education icon as she received the GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize, joining an elite list of educators whose work has transformed lives against overwhelming odds. The Global Teacher Prize celebrates teachers who make an extraordinary impact on their communities, often with limited resources but unlimited compassion. Her win was widely celebrated across India, especially in Jammu and Kashmir, her home region, where many hailed her as a “daughter of the soil” who carried local values of resilience and service onto the world stage. Praise also poured in from past Global Teacher Prize winner Ranjitsinh Disale, who acknowledged her work as a powerful reminder of what education can achieve when it reaches the last child.Image Source : Kashmir ImagesFrom Artist to Educator, From Walls to WisdomRouble Nagi’s story is unlike that of conventional educators. An internationally acclaimed artist with over 800 murals and more than 150 exhibitions worldwide, she chose not to keep her art confined to galleries. Instead, she carried it into narrow lanes, slums, and villages—places where classrooms were missing, but curiosity was alive. Through her Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, she pioneered the concept of “Living Walls of Learning.” Instead of blackboards and textbooks, she painted alphabets, numbers, scientific concepts, historical figures, and moral lessons directly onto walls. These murals transformed dull, broken structures into vibrant learning spaces where children could read, count, and imagine. Over two decades, this idea grew into a nationwide movement. Image Source : The Indian Express 800 Learning Centres, One Million ChildrenWhat began as an artistic experiment evolved into one of India’s most innovative education models. Rouble Nagi has helped establish more than 800 learning centres across slums and rural areas, reaching over one million children many of whom had never stepped inside a school. These centres support both out-of-school children and those already enrolled in government schools but struggling with foundational learning. The aim is simple yet powerful make education visual, accessible, and joyful. Literacy, mathematics, science, and history become easier when learning feels familiar and close to home. Today, the foundation operates in over 163 slums and villages across India, delivering education through low-cost, sustainable models that communities themselves can maintain. Education, for Rouble Nagi, was never just about books. It was about dignity. Through the Misaal Mumbai initiative, she led the repair and painting of more than 1,50,000 homes, turning neglected settlements into colourful, safe, and hopeful neighbourhoods.Why the World Chose Rouble NagiThe Global Teacher Prize jury recognised Rouble Nagi not only for numbers but also for impact. More than 800 learning centres. More than 800 educational murals. More than a million lives touched. But beyond statistics lies a deeper truth: she reached children the system had forgotten. Her work proved that education does not always need buildings, budgets, or bureaucracy. Sometimes, it just needs a wall, a brush, and belief. With the $1 million prize money, Rouble Nagi plans to expand her learning centres, train more teachers, and establish a free Skilling Institute. The goal is to provide vocational training to young people so they can become self-reliant and secure dignified employment. In a country where millions of youth struggle to transition from education to jobs, this next step bridges a crucial gap. It ensures that learning does not end at literacy but leads to livelihood.Standing Among Global ChangemakersThe Global Teacher Prize has previously honoured a Kenyan teacher who donated most of his earnings to the poor, a Palestinian educator teaching non-violence, and a Canadian teacher working with Inuit students in remote Arctic villages. In 2025, Saudi educator Mansour Al-Mansour won for his work with the poor in the UAE. In 2026, Rouble Nagi’s name joined this list not as just an Indian winner, but as a global symbol of what teaching can be when it reaches beyond classrooms. Rouble Nagi’s story reminds us that teaching is not limited by chalk or classrooms. It is an act of faith in humanity. By turning walls into teachers and art into education, she has shown the world that the most respectful job on Earth still has the power to quietly change everything. And sometimes, the strongest lessons are painted, not spoken.

6 Feb 2026

Star Citizens

This Karnataka Farmer Did the Unthinkable: India’s First Jaggery Made From Corn Stalks

In the farmlands of Bagalkote, Karnataka, Mahalingappa Itnal has done something quietly revolutionary when he looked at agricultural waste and saw possibility. Corn stalks, usually burnt, discarded, or at best fed to cattle after harvest, were long considered the dead end of a crop cycle. But Mahalingappa refused to accept that narrative. Instead, he transformed these fibrous remnants into something both valuable and nourishing: jaggery. His innovation challenges not just farming practices but mindsets, proving that rural ingenuity, when guided by observation and courage, can rewrite the rules of sustainability. What was once smoke rising from burnt residue is now a source of income, health, and hope.The Insight That Sparked an InnovationMahalingappa’s breakthrough came from a simple but powerful observation: sweet corn stalks contain juice, much like sugarcane. Drawing inspiration from traditional sugarcane jaggery-making techniques, he adapted existing crushing and boiling methods to suit corn stalks. After harvesting the maize grains, instead of discarding the stalks, he crushes them to extract juice. This juice is then filtered, boiled, and reduced using controlled heat until it thickens into jaggery. No complex machinery, no imported technology, just intelligent adaptation of what already existed. By aligning local knowledge with experimentation, he created a process that is efficient, replicable, and farmer-friendly. Health, Speed, and Sustainability in One ProductThe jaggery produced from corn stalks is not just innovative; it is healthier and faster to produce than conventional sugarcane jaggery. Laboratory tests suggest that corn jaggery contains lower sugar levels and higher nutritional value, making it a better alternative, even for people managing diabetes. Beyond health, the efficiency is remarkable. Corn matures in just four months, half the time required for sugarcane, allowing farmers to grow two crops a year. This reduces water consumption, shortens crop cycles, and lowers financial risk. In an era of climate uncertainty, Mahalingappa’s method offers a resilient and sustainable farming model.A Blueprint for Rural EntrepreneurshipThe economic impact of this innovation is equally powerful. By converting what was once agricultural waste into a marketable product, farmers can earn an additional ₹3,000 per tonne, creating a new income stream without increasing land or input costs. Recognised as a first-of-its-kind innovation in India, Mahalingappa Itnal’s work embodies the true spirit of the circular economy, where nothing is wasted, and everything has value. His journey is not just about jaggery, it is about dignity in farming, intelligence in tradition, and courage in experimentation. In turning corn stalks into gold, Mahalingappa has shown that India’s most transformative innovations often rise quietly from its fields.

22 Jan 2026

Star Citizens

From Classroom to National Stage: Tushar Shaw’s AI Glasses Are Changing Lives!

At just 19 years of age, Tushar Shaw, a second-year engineering student at the Scaler School of Technology (SST) in Bengaluru, has achieved what many innovators spend years striving for. His invention, an AI-powered smart glasses device named Percevia, has earned national attention for its potential to transform the lives of people with complete blindness. More than a technological breakthrough, Percevia is a deeply human innovation born out of empathy, curiosity and a desire to solve a real-world problem. Tushar’s journey reflects the power of young minds when given the freedom to build, experiment and fail. What began as a classroom assignment has now evolved into one of India’s most promising student-led assistive technologies.From Midterm Project to National RecognitionPercevia did not start as a startup idea or a competition entry. It began as a midterm project at SST, where students are encouraged to think beyond grades and focus on real impact. Guided by faculty mentors and shaped by direct feedback from visually impaired users, Tushar gradually refined his concept from a prototype into a field-tested solution. His dedication paid off when Percevia advanced through the highly competitive Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2025 challenge. Tushar moved from the Top 20 to the Top 10 and eventually emerged as one of the four national winners, securing the top prize of ₹25 lakh. Reflecting on the experience, he described it as finding “a tribe of builders,” where collaboration and shared ambition pushed everyone beyond their perceived limits.What Is Percevia, and Why It MattersPercevia is an AI-powered smart glasses device designed to assist people with complete blindness in navigating their surroundings safely and independently. Unlike many assistive tools that offer limited functionality, Percevia acts as a real-time sensory companion, translating visual information into sound and vibration cues. At its core, the device uses Google Gemini 2.0 Flash to process visual input captured through the glasses. This allows Percevia to recognize objects, faces, text and spatial layouts instantly. For a blind user, this means understanding what lies ahead, who is nearby and what obstacles need to be avoided—all without relying on constant external assistance.Engineering Meets EmpathyWhat impressed judges and mentors alike was not just the technology behind Percevia but its human-centered design. Samsung praised the project for its engineering clarity, thoughtful design choices and purpose-driven innovation. Scaler School of Technology highlighted it as a powerful example of how deep-tech, when guided by empathy, can create meaningful social impact. The device offers real-time object awareness, distance and depth sensing to avoid collisions, and face recognition that helps users identify known people. It can read and summarize text, provide voice guidance and deliver vibration-based safety alerts. All processing is powered through a smartphone, keeping the glasses lightweight, comfortable and practical for everyday use. One of Percevia’s strongest foundations lies in its iterative design process. Tushar actively involved visually impaired users in testing and feedback sessions, refining the device based on their real experiences. Comfort, usability and clarity of cues were given as much importance as technical accuracy.The Road Ahead: From Prototype to ProductWith the prize money and national recognition, Tushar is now focused on developing a production-ready version of Percevia. The next phase involves rigorous pilot testing in blind schools across India. These trials will help improve usability, enhance comfort and fine-tune AI performance across diverse environments. Affordability remains a key priority. Tushar aims to price Percevia around ₹29,999, making it accessible to a wider section of users. He also hopes to collaborate with NGOs and accessibility-focused organizations to ensure the device reaches those who need it most, not just those who can afford it.A New Chapter in Assistive TechnologyPercevia stands as one of the most impactful student-led assistive technologies to emerge from India in recent years. It reflects the growing power of AI when guided by empathy and responsibility. As Tushar Shaw continues to refine and scale his invention, his journey sends a powerful message to young innovators across the country. Meaningful change often begins with a simple question: how can I help? At 19, Tushar is not just building technology. He is building a future where innovation sees everyone.

21 Dec 2025

Star Citizens

The Woman Who Stood Fearless: Tilottama Verma’s Unmatched Policing Legacy

Long before medals, encounters, and national honours came her way, Tilottama Verma’s story began with a child’s quiet sense of pride. As a Class 1 student in a Mall Road school in Shimla, she watched a constable snap to attention every time her father, SP Shimla, arrived to pick her up. At that age, she was too young to understand hierarchy or power, yet old enough to feel the weight of the salute. Wearing her father’s oversized police cap at home, she would look into the mirror and imagine a future where she, too, would command such respect. That innocent spark would one day grow into one of the most inspiring careers in Indian policing.Carrying a Legacy ForwardBorn on 2 November 1965 to Rati Ram Varma, a future Director General of Police in Himachal Pradesh, Tilottama Verma did not just inherit a legacy she elevated it. She excelled as a student, earning a gold medal in English Literature and Law, and at just 22, she presented a research paper at the International Court of Justice. When she cleared the UPSC examination and joined the 1990 batch of the Indian Police Service (Uttar Pradesh cadre), she stepped into one of India’s toughest policing landscapes with a rare mix of academic brilliance and emotional depth.A Career Defined by CourageHer career in Uttar Pradesh soon became the stuff of legend. The defining moment arrived in 2002 during her tenure as Senior Superintendent of Police, Hathras. In a high-risk rescue operation, she confronted armed criminals to save two children, one child held in her arm, a weapon in the other. This single moment captured her instinctive bravery and professional precision. It also earned her the distinction of becoming the first woman IPS officer from Uttar Pradesh to receive the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry. In a state where policing challenges are formidable, she emerged as a symbol of grit and fearlessness.A Relentless Fight Against CorruptionBetween 2006 and 2011, Verma served as Deputy Inspector General (Anti-Corruption) in the Central Bureau of Investigation. At a time when corruption cases frequently brushed against political and administrative hierarchies, she became known for her unwavering neutrality. Senior officers and colleagues recall her commitment to ensuring that investigations remained independent, even in politically charged environments. Her tenure stands as an example of what institutional integrity truly looks like in practice.Guarding India’s Wildlife: A Global ImpactHer service took a new direction when she took charge as Inspector General of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. Here, her impact became international. Under her leadership, several organised trafficking networks, including those linked to tiger poaching, ivory smuggling, and cross-border wildlife crimes, were dismantled. In the final phase of her career, as Director General (Training) at the Uttar Pradesh Police Headquarters, Verma pivoted from enforcement to institution-building. She spearheaded critical reforms in police training, incorporating scientific investigation techniques, forensic awareness, behavioural modules, leadership skills, and gender sensitization programs. Her efforts significantly improved the preparedness of the force ahead of large-scale events like the 2025 Maha Kumbh, ensuring that officers were equipped not just technically, but also psychologically and socially.Tilottama Verma retired from service on November 30. She leaves behind a legacy defined by professionalism, discipline, and unwavering integrity. Her remarkable tenure has not only strengthened policing standards in Uttar Pradesh but also elevated the state’s law enforcement training ecosystem. Her contributions will continue to inspire generations of officers long after her service comes to a close.

8 Dec 2025

Star Citizens

Teen Genius Smart Tech : How Sharanya is Transforming Irrigation in India

Sharanya Mehta, a Class 12 student, found her calling. Summers spent in Alwar, observing wilted plants and cracked soil, ignited a desire to help farmers manage irrigation better. “I kept wondering, was there a way to measure, to predict, to guide farmers better?” she recalls. Her curiosity sowed the seeds of what would become a Decision Support System (DSS) app, blending technology with local agricultural needs.From Idea to Innovation: Shaping the DSSSharanya’s vision crystallized when she met Commodore Sridhar Kotra, military veteran and co-founder of Agrimatrix India Pvt Ltd, during her Rural Community Development Program (RCDP) work. He guided her in assembling agronomy datasets, considering crop-specific water requirements, soil types, and weather patterns. Sharanya insisted that user-friendliness be central to the system: voice prompts, offline access, and local languages ensured farmers could easily adopt the technology. “We made every feature only after farmers asked for it,” she says. This focus on usability transformed her DSS from a conceptual idea into a practical tool that villagers could trust.Technology at Work: Sensors, Satellites, and Smart DataBy early 2025, Sharanya’s project had developed into a fully functional system. The Decision Support System (DSS) combines multiple technologies to help farmers manage irrigation efficiently. Soil sensors, placed at two depths (0–30 cm and 30–60 cm), monitor moisture levels, while satellite data from ISRO Bhuvan and Sentinel-2 tracks crop stress zones using the NDMI (Normalized Difference Moisture Index).The system also integrates weather forecasts for rainfall, temperature, wind, and evapotranspiration. All this data is processed in real time through cloud-based analysis using Python and Node.js on AWS/Azure to provide accurate irrigation recommendations. Farmers access the information through a mobile app that shows colour-coded moisture maps, two-week irrigation schedules, alerts, and voice/video guides. The app supports multiple local languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Marathi, and works offline to ensure reliability even in areas with poor connectivity.Smart Solutions, Thriving FieldsSharanya’s DSS was rolled out following a clear, step-by-step plan. From January to March, she visited farmers in Mandaura to understand their challenges and design the first app concepts. In April and May, she selected sensors, integrated satellite data, developed the backend, and tested app mock-ups for simplicity. By June, sensors were deployed, and farmers began entering field data and following irrigation guidance. In July, the system underwent lab tests to ensure it worked under heat, dust, and humidity, while Vizexec Transformation in Gurgaon validated the software and Loyli Engineering Solutions in Pune tested the pump controller. In August, full-scale field trials began, and farmers used the DSS to save water and diesel. That same month, Sharanya received the CREST Gold Award and secured a provisional patent for her system, covering its decision engine, real-time integrations, and multilingual interface.Helping Farmers Make Every Drop CountThe DSS works through three connected phases. In data collection, soil sensors measure moisture hourly, satellite NDMI readings identify stress zones, weather forecasts predict rainfall and evaporation, and farmers input crop type, sowing date, and soil profile. Next, the analysis and decision engine uses cloud-based algorithms to combine real-time data with agronomic rules and calculate precise irrigation schedules. Finally, in advice delivery, the app provides actionable guidance through colour-coded maps, alerts, and voice or video instructions. In cases where pumps are automated, the DSS can directly trigger irrigation, saving both fuel and labor. Sharanya’s DSS tackles key challenges faced by farmers. It conserves water by optimizing irrigation and reducing unnecessary pumping, saves diesel through automated schedules, and improves crop health by preventing stress from drought or excess water. It also empowers farmers, giving clear guidance that boosts confidence and reduces guesswork. Farmers now begin their day with assurance instead of worry, checking soil moisture and forecasts before taking action.

13 Oct 2025

Star Citizens

India’s Water Champion: Dr. Himanshu Kulkarni Becomes First Indian Recipient of International Water Prize

On September 15, 2025, a proud moment unfolded in Boston, USA, when Pune-based scientist Dr. Himanshu Kulkarni was formally presented with the International Water Prize at the University of Oklahoma. Instituted in 2009, this biennial award honors outstanding contributions in the field of water supply and sanitation, with special focus on underprivileged regions across the world. While Dr. Kulkarni’s name was announced in 2024, the award ceremony in 2025 made it official he is the first individual from India and the wider subcontinent to win this globally respected honor. The award includes a trophy and a cash prize of USD 25,000, but more than that, it carries international recognition for his decades-long contribution to India’s water governance.Leading the Way in Groundwater SustainabilityFor over three decades, Dr. Kulkarni has been a leading voice in groundwater management a resource that sustains nearly 65% of India’s agriculture and 85% of its drinking water needs. He co-chaired a Working Group for NITI Aayog’s 12th Five-Year Plan, contributed to the National Aquifer Mapping Program, and pushed forward the idea of aquifer-based groundwater management a framework that treats groundwater as a shared community resource rather than private property. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Water beneath the ground belongs to everyone, and therefore, its management must be collective.”ACWADAM: Building Communities Around WaterAt the heart of his work lies ACWADAM (Advanced Center for Water Resources Development and Management), a Pune-based organization he co-founded and continues to serve as Trustee and Secretary. ACWADAM has done community led water management projects, empowering villages and rural communities to monitor, manage, and protect their groundwater reserves. By involving local communities directly in aquifer mapping, water budgeting, and equitable sharing, ACWADAM has changed how water is viewed not just as a resource to be extracted, but as a lifeline to be preserved collectively. Dr. Kulkarni often emphasizes that partnerships, collaborations, and people’s participation are the only sustainable ways to address India’s deepening water crisis.Teaching and MentorshipAlongside his fieldwork, Dr. Kulkarni is deeply invested in teaching and mentoring future leaders in water governance. He is a Professor of Practice in Rural Management at Shiv Nadar Institute of Eminence, and serves as Visiting Professor at IIT Bombay and Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Through these roles, he has inspired students, policymakers, and young researchers to adopt a scientific yet community-focused lens in tackling water issues. His academic contributions ensure that the next generation of leaders carries forward the torch of equitable water governance.India’s Voice on the Global StageDr. Kulkarni’s recognition is not just a personal milestone; it is also a moment of pride for India. It highlights the country’s growing contribution to global water governance and reinforces the idea that local, community-driven solutions can have global relevance. In an era when climate change and over-extraction are pushing the world toward water scarcity, his achievement sets a benchmark for future innovations and strengthens India’s voice in the international dialogue on sustainable water management. The story of Dr. Kulkarni is a reminder that real change begins at the grassroots level. His journey from working with rural communities in Maharashtra to receiving one of the world’s most respected water awards proves that science, when combined with empathy and collaboration, can transform societies.

24 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

India’s First Youth-Led Diabetes Policy Study: How One Teen Sparked Systemic Change

For most kids, life is about school, friends, and simple dreams. For Veruschka Pandey, it was about saving lives. During a CPR training session she was conducting at a rural school, a young girl suddenly collapsed. Even though doctors were present, they could not immediately identify the condition. Later, it was found to be hyperglycemia—dangerously high blood sugar levels. That single moment opened Veruschka’s eyes to the silent crisis of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in India. It was the spark that transformed a teenager’s concern into a mission of evidence, advocacy, and change.Turning Pain into PurposeInstead of stopping at criticism, Veruschka sought solutions. She began by publishing a comparative review of pediatric diabetes frameworks in India, Kenya, and Brazil. The contrast with developed countries like the UK and Sweden was stark: while children there had legal protections and systemic support, those in low- and middle-income countries remained invisible in policy. This inequality fueled her determination. She reached out to the Public Health Foundation of India, designing a full-scale study to address gaps in diabetes care. What began as an idea became a challenging research project that would soon capture global attention.India’s First Youth-Led Policy-Shaping StudyHer study, Invisible Inequities in Type 1 Diabetes Care in India, broke new ground by uncovering critical gaps in the healthcare system. Conducted in Karnataka through 43 in-depth interviews with patients, caregivers, doctors, and policymakers, it revealed five major systemic failures: Frequent insulin stock-outs,Misdiagnosis and delayed detectionGender-based exclusion in access to careFamilies collapsing under financial stressThe overlooked mental health burdens faced by both patients and caregivers. More importantly, the study did not stop at highlighting problems; it went further to design a comprehensive policy blueprint that integrated Type 1 Diabetes into Karnataka’s Noncommunicable Disease (NCD) program. Today, this framework is being formally deliberated by the Government of Karnataka, making it the first instance in India where youth-led research has directly influenced state health policy.Evidence That Transforms SystemsFor Veruschka, this was not just an academic success—it was proof that youth-led research can be transformative. Her work demonstrates that evidence combined with empathy has the power to shift systems and create sustainable policy change. While her scientific research is groundbreaking, Veruschka also believes that statistics alone cannot move hearts. Her poetry collection, The Quiet Geometry of Chaos, reflects this philosophy. Through verse, she humanises numbers, reminding the world that every statistic is a story of real people and their struggles.A Voice Beyond BordersVeruschka’s impact is not limited to India. As a WHO Youth Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and a UN Youth Summit speaker, she represents the voice of young changemakers on global platforms. Her vision is to expand the diabetes policy framework across other Indian states and eventually make it scalable for other low- and middle-income countries facing similar challenges. Her research captures both the rigour of science and the heartbeat of humanity. This balance has enabled her to influence policymakers, inspire peers, and remind society that even the most complex health challenges can be tackled when approached with compassion and determination. Her story stands as proof of what the new generation can achieve. It is proof that age is no barrier to impact and that when empathy meets evidence, both lives and systems can be transformed.

19 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

Vision Without Eyes: Mahantesh’s Journey of Courage and Change

In September 1970, in Belgaum, Karnataka, a baby boy was born into joy and celebration. But at just six months old, typhoid fever damaged his optic nerves irreversibly, leaving him blind for life. For most families, this might have spelled despair. But Mahantesh’s parents made a quiet, firm decision: he would not be sheltered or excluded. At home, he grew up playing with cousins, joining family festivals, and being treated like any other child. Inclusion wasn’t a philosophy in his home; it was a way of life. That early foundation of belonging became the seed of his future work building opportunities for thousands who, like him, lived in a world not designed for them.A Chance Encounter That Changed His CourseOutside his home, however, barriers loomed. Schools refused admission, citing lack of resources. For years, Mahantesh sat quietly at the back of classrooms, never enrolled, never called during attendance. Then, in 1981, a turning point arrived. A school inspector noticed him solving math problems with ease despite not being a student. Shocked, the inspector convinced his parents to enroll him at the Ramana Maharshi Academy for the Blind in Bengaluru. For the first time, Mahantesh found himself in an environment where blindness wasn’t a limitation. Accessible classrooms, teachers trained to help, and a culture of encouragement helped him race ahead, completing ten years of schooling in just six.Discovering a World of PossibilitiesIn Bengaluru, Mahantesh thrived. He explored music, drama, and sports while excelling academically. A turning point came in 1986, when he traveled to the United Kingdom on an educational exchange program. There, he saw blind professionals working as lawyers, teachers, and IT specialists. That vision drove him through higher education. Despite challenges in mainstream colleges with no ramps or assistive tools, he completed a Master’s and MPhil in English from Bangalore University. Later, he even taught at the University of North Carolina.Building Samarthanam: An Ecosystem of OpportunityBy 1997, Mahantesh recognized the glaring gap in India’s disability landscape, where accessible education and dignified jobs were still rare. Instead of waiting for the system to catch up, he co-founded the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, which began as a modest initiative and has since grown into one of India’s largest inclusion-focused organizations.Over the years, Samarthanam has supported more than 22,000 students through inclusive and special schools, trained over 55,000 individuals with disabilities, and placed 35,000 people in jobs through its Livelihood Resource Centre that offers training, free accommodation, and placements. The trust also runs schools for children with intellectual disabilities.“We don’t ask companies to hire people because they’re disabled,” Mahantesh emphasizes. “We ask them to hire them because they’re capable.” Strengthening its impact further, Samarthanam has built partnerships across 900 colleges and 100 universities, providing essential tools like screen readers, laptops, and smartphones to bridge the digital divide for the disabled community.Redefining Sport: The Blind Cricket RevolutionMahantesh’s first love was cricket, nurtured by listening to radio commentaries as a child. In 1990, he began playing blind cricket competitively and by 1994, was captaining his team. But his greatest impact came off the field. In 2010, when the governing body for blind cricket in India was collapsing, he stepped in to rebuild it. Under his leadership, India’s blind cricket team won three T20 World Cups, two ODI World Cups, and an Asia Cup. The sport grew to 30,000+ players across the country, including women. Players gained jobs, government recognition, and national awards—including the Arjuna Award. Through Samarthanam, Mahantesh has built ties with United Way, Give India, Give2Asia, and numerous CSR initiatives. His organization stands as a global model of community-driven inclusion.A Life That InspiresFor many Indians, Mahantesh’s journey is more than a success story. His life resonates with anyone who has faced exclusion, showing that opportunity can transform despair into dignity. From a boy shut out of school in Belgaum to a global advocate for disability rights, Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar’s story is one of hope, courage, and vision. Inclusion isn’t charity. It is about recognizing talent, dignity, and humanity. Through Samarthanam and blind cricket, he has touched over 100,000 lives, giving people the same chance his parents once gave him: to belong, to grow, and to shine.

2 Sep 2025

Star Citizens

Patching Up a Nation: The Inspiring Story of Gangadhara Tilak Katnam

I still remember that fateful day when I was driving through the roads in my area, lost in thought. Suddenly, my bike hit a massive pothole, and I felt my heart skip a beat. Luckily, I escaped with just a few bruises, but the incident left a mark on my mind. As I stood there, assessing the damage, I couldn't help but wonder: "What if someone else wasn't as fortunate as I was?" That thought sparked a sense of responsibility within me, and I began to look for ways to make our roads safer.Little did I know that there was someone out there who had not only thought about this issue but had also dedicated his life to addressing it. Meet Gangadhara Tilak Katnam, a 73 -year-old retired railway employee who has taken it upon himself to fill the treacherous potholes on Indian roads.Gangadhara's journey began with a simple yet profound realization: potholes are not just a nuisance, but a threat to human life. Witnessing the devastating consequences of these road hazards firsthand, he decided to take matters into his own hands. With the support of his wife, Gangadhara embarked on a mission to fill the treacherous potholes that plague India's roads.He sets out every morning, armed with gunny bags full of tar mixed gravel, to tackle the potholes. His car is his trusty companion, and the backseat is always stocked with the necessary materials. Over the years, he has filled over 1,125 potholes, and his efforts have inspired many to join him in his mission.A Couple's Selfless ContributionGangadhara's wife was initially hesitant about his decision to dedicate his life to filling potholes. However, as she saw the positive impact of his work, she began to support him wholeheartedly. His son, Ravi, who lives in the US, has also been instrumental in helping his father continue his mission. Ravi developed an app that allows people to send the locations of potholes to Gangadhara, making it easier for him to identify areas that need attention.Over the past few years, Gangadhara and his wife have personally covered all expenses, spending a staggering INR 40 lakh to fix over 2,000 potholes. Their selfless contribution has not only improved the safety of India's roads but has also inspired countless others to join their cause.Gangadhara's daily routine is an example to his steadfast commitment. He sets out every morning, armed with gunny bags full of tar mixed gravel, to tackle the potholes that threaten the lives of commuters.Gangadhara's journey has not been without its challenges. Despite his advanced age, he faces physical exhaustion and criticism from those who believe that addressing civic issues is the responsibility of the authorities. However, he remains undeterred, driven by his conviction to make a difference.As I reflect on Gangadhara's story, I am reminded of the power of individual responsibility. We often complain about the state of our roads, but how many of us are willing to take action? Gangadhara's selfless dedication is an example to the fact that one person can make a difference.

28 Mar 2025

Star Citizens

Trash to Treasure: The Green Revolution Transforming Mumbai

Some people are simply born for nature, destined to make a lasting impact on the world around them. One such person is Mana Shah. Every midnight, her dedicated team swings into action, collecting segregated waste from the 96 flats at Lok Nirmal Heights. What was once a daunting and overwhelming task has now transformed into a smooth, eco-friendly operation, thanks to the enthusiasm of the residents and a powerful partnership with Green Practices. This suburban society, once plagued by waste management challenges, is now a shining example of sustainable living. With Mana’s vision and relentless passion, Lok Nirmal Heights has become a model for others to follow.Gone are the days of chaotic garbage piles and confusion. This community now celebrates the benefits of an efficient waste separation system, and guess what? They even get nutrient-rich compost for their gardens, all for free! Now, that’s what we call a win-win!Waste Warriors of Mumbai: Turning Trash into Treasure Goutam, the manager of Lok Nirmal Heights, shares how this incredible journey began: “We joined the waste management project back in 2019. At first, managing waste was a bit tricky, but once we teamed up with Green Practices, everything became much easier. They collect the segregated waste at midnight to avoid the rush-hour chaos, and in return, we get free compost to nourish our gardens!” And the cherry on top? This eco-friendly service costs less than Rs 100 per month per flat! Not only has it saved the community maintenance costs, but it has also brought the residents together with a shared purpose: sustainability. Proof that doing good for the planet can also be easy on the wallet!Mana Shah: The Earth WarriorAt the heart of this green revolution is Mana Shah, the incredible woman behind Green Practices. Her path to sustainability is nothing short of inspiring! Mana was once managing her family’s petrol pump business, but everything changed when she watched An Inconvenient Truth in 2006. “The documentary hit me like a ton of bricks,” Mana recalls. “It opened my eyes to the urgent reality of climate change, and the fact that Mumbai, my home, was one of the most vulnerable cities to rising sea levels really struck a chord with me. I couldn’t just keep going with business as usual while my city faced such a threat.”Determined to make a difference, Mana started to research on eco-friendly technologies. A trip to Auroville opened her eyes to the world of waste management, and by 2010, she launched Green Practices with a clear vision: to turn waste into a resource and create a circular economy.Recycling Mumbai: From Garbage to Gardens! Mana’s magic lies in making waste work for us! At Green Practices, the focus is on the simple yet powerful idea of separating waste at the source. Residents segregate food waste from recyclables, and voila! The organic waste gets composted, and recyclables are sorted for reuse, not landfill!“It’s all about thinking differently,” says Mana. “When you throw something away, it doesn’t just disappear. It goes somewhere, and it’s up to us to decide if it becomes pollution or a resource.” Using natural microbes, Green Practices composts organic waste in just one month instead of the usual six, turning it into nutrient-rich compost. The best part? This compost is handed back to clients, for free to help them grow vibrant gardens and green spaces. Now, how cool is that?Scaling the Green Dream: Driving a Community! What started with just one community has blossomed into a full-blown movement. Green Practices now serves 50 communities, including major companies like Reliance and Swiggy. Together, they handle up to 500 tones of waste every month, helping ease the burden on Mumbai’s already overworked waste management system. But Mana knows there’s more work to be done.“Raising awareness is still a big challenge. People often don’t realize how urgent the climate crisis is,” she says with a smile, despite the frustration. “But I won’t give up. Every time I see someone wake up to the importance of sustainability, it’s worth it.”Composting the Future: A Call to ActionMana’s mission goes far beyond the communities she’s already helped. She dreams of expanding her impact even further, reaching out to more societies, businesses, and individuals. “Every tone of waste we divert, every person we inspire to take action, it’s a step toward a brighter, greener future,” she says. Thanks to Mana and Green Practices, Mumbai residents are finally waking up to the power of sustainable waste management. What was once seen as “garbage” is now viewed as a valuable resource, and with every composted pile and recycled item, the city is taking huge strides toward becoming a model of eco-conscious living. So next time you toss something in the trash, just remember: There’s no “away.” It’s all about turning that waste into something wonderful. And with pioneers like Mana leading the way, the future of Mumbai and the planet looks incredibly green! For more information about Green Practices: https://www.greenpractices.in

27 Mar 2025

Star Citizens

Ajinkya Dhariya: The Innovator Behind the World's First Sanitary Pad Recycling Revolution

Ajinkya Dhariya, a mechanical engineer by training, identified a significant environmental and health issue when he observed used sanitary pads and diapers discarded in open spaces and landfills. He saw ragpickers handling these hazardous wastes with bare hands, which ignited his determination to find a solution. Recognizing the absence of existing technology to address this problem, Dhariya decided to create one himself. Launching PadCare Labs In 2018, Dhariya founded PadCare Labs with a mission to transform menstrual hygiene and waste management. The Pune-based startup developed PadCareX, a pioneering recycling technology that converts absorbent sanitary waste into valuable by-products such as pulp and plastic, which can be reused in various industrial applications. The collected waste is sent to a central processing unit called SANECO, which operates on a mechanical chemo principle and provides the 5Ds: Disinfection, Deodorization, De-colorization, Disintegration, and Deactivation (super absorbent polymer). Impressively, the waste processed through this unit can be reused and recycled, achieving over 80% material recovery by separating cellulose from plastic. The sterilized output waste can be repurposed into plant pots, paper, fuel, or handed over to recyclers for added value. This compact installation is free of cost and doesn't require electricity. This innovation marked a significant step towards solving the pollution caused by sanitary waste and improving the health and well-being of waste pickers. Source: Google Images Overcoming Initial Challenges Despite the innovative nature of his idea, Dhariya faced initial resistance from many who rejected his concept. However, he persevered. At just 28 years old, he became the first to introduce this market-changing technology. His hometown of Mhasla in Maharashtra's Raigard district served as the backdrop for his journey, where he drew inspiration from the challenges faced by his community. PadCare Labs has made remarkable strides in its six years of operation. The company now operates in 19 cities, partnering with 550 organizations to reach one million women. Their efforts have significantly reduced the environmental impact of sanitary waste, saving 100 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually. Sanitary napkins, which are largely composed of plastic, typically take 500 to 800 years to decompose. Through PadCare’s efforts, 138 metric tonnes of sanitary waste have been collected and recycled to date. Scaling Technology Dhariya's relentless pursuit of innovation led to the optimization of PadCareX, increasing its processing capacity from handling 1,000 pads per day to 60,000. In 2023, PadCare Labs inaugurated the world’s first material recovery facility in Pune, capable of processing 1.5 metric tonnes of sanitary waste per day. PadCare Labs gained widespread recognition and support, including an appearance on Shark Tank India. During the show, Dhariya secured funding from Lenskart founder Peeyush Bansal and Emcure Pharma’s Namita Thapar. The startup raised ₹5 crore, with additional participation from Nithin Kamath’s Rainmatter and Social Alpha. Ajinkya Dhariya has successfully addressed a critical environmental and public health issue. PadCare Labs is making a profound impact on communities and the environment. Dhariya’s innovative spirit and dedication to positive change continue to inspire and pave the way for sustainable solutions in the field of menstrual hygiene and waste management.

25 Jul 2024

Star Citizens

Weaving Sustainability: The EcoKaari Journey

Imagine a world where waste becomes a source of beauty and empowerment. This is the vision driving EcoKaari, a dynamic social enterprise founded by Pune-based Nandan Bhat in September 2020. With a mission to redefine sustainability in artisanal crafts, EcoKaari emerged from a passionate desire to foster a community rooted in bottom-up development. Their unique name, blending 'Eco' (eco-friendly) and 'Kaari' (artisan), perfectly captures their commitment to uniting artisans and the environment through innovative and ethical practices. Upcycling for the Planet Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our generation, and EcoKaari takes it seriously. The enterprise upcycles waste plastic into beautiful handcrafted fabrics using traditional tools like the charkha (spindle) and handloom. This fabric, crafted by women and youth from humble backgrounds, is then transformed into a range of contemporary designs. EcoKaari sources waste plastic from large-scale collectors and eco-conscious consumers. Any plastic that cannot be used is donated to organizations that convert it into fuel. Their cleaning processes use biodegradable cleaners, and water usage is meticulously managed to prevent wastage. EcoKaari’s commitment to ‘closing the loop’ means they extend the life cycle of their products by offering free repairs for life and responsibly disposing of items at the end of their usability. Source: Google images Empowering People EcoKaari’s team is a blend of diverse stories and backgrounds, united by a common goal of sustainability. Their mission is to support people from less privileged backgrounds, providing them with skills and opportunities to become self-reliant. By reviving the traditional Indian heritage of using charkha and handlooms, EcoKaari supports rural women and youth, enabling them to earn a living through their craft. EcoKaari also works closely with waste pickers, providing them with an alternative source of income by purchasing waste plastic that is otherwise of little value. This initiative supports the waste pickers financially and contributes to effective waste management. Sustainable Fashion: A New Paradigm EcoKaari’s upcycling process is entirely manual, avoiding the use of heat, electricity, or chemicals. This green process transforms waste plastic into upcycled handwoven fabric, which is then used to make various products, from handbags and fashion accessories to home decor and office stationery. Each product requires between 7 to 50 plastic bags to create. The Craftpreneur’s Journey Nandan Bhat, a successful craftpreneur, has been at the forefront of innovative upcycling. With a background in engineering and marketing, Bhat transitioned from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, driven by his passion for sustainability. His frequent treks, marred by the sight of plastic waste, inspired him to address this environmental issue through EcoKaari. Bhat’s vision for EcoKaari includes integrating various forms of Indigenous Indian crafts with upcycled fabric, thereby giving new hope to traditional crafts struggling due to modern challenges. His previous venture, Aarohana EcoSocial Developments, grew significantly under his leadership. Source: Google images Challenges and Market Potential EcoKaari faces significant challenges in a market dominated by cheaper, machine-made products. Despite the growing interest in sustainable products, the labor-intensive nature of their upcycling process results in higher costs, posing a disadvantage. Additionally, the perception that products made from waste should be inexpensive or free presents a hurdle. Funding remains a challenge, as does waste segregation, which is crucial to their upcycling process. Despite these obstacles, Bhat remains optimistic. He draws parallels between nurturing a startup and growing a crop—both require patience, care, and the right conditions to thrive. EcoKaari’s journey exemplifies the impact of merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sustainability practices. By converting waste into exquisite, high-quality products and empowering communities, EcoKaari is establishing a new benchmark for sustainable development.

2 Jul 2024

Star Citizens

Pavani Lolla: Invents the "Vapra-Oder Free Home Composter" that turns kitchen waste into Manure

In a world where environmental awareness is gaining momentum, Pavani Lolla, the brain behind Future Step's Vapra composting solutions, is leading the way to a greener and more sustainable future. "I started as a student when I founded the Eco Club, which focused on raising awareness about the environment. During this time, I realized the serious problem of waste sorting and landfills. At first, there was a plan to build a waste sorting site, " I started as a student when I founded the Eco Club, which focused on raising environmental awareness. but after I learned that a significant portion of organic waste ends up in landfills, I turned to composting. Pavani Lolla talks about her journey as an environmental crusader, her work on composting solutions, her vision to see a waste-free India, and why every small step towards sustainability is important. What makes her work different ~ The products they source are quite simple. "With our products, you simply add waste and recycle it; That's all. Your compost will be formed in just seven days without worms or unpleasant smells", says Pavani. The design and concept of the products they offer are based on the idea that they should work as both a waste bin and a compost bin. This not only simplifies the process for customers but also saves a lot of time. Milestones and Lessons Learned ~ In addition, the launch of their home composter is one of the most important milestones in her journey. "We started with just one product, our home composter, and it takes time for people to believe in us. But today, thanks to our Home Composter customers, we have successfully diverted over 20 lakh kg of waste from landfill. Our domestic partner is at the heart of our mission," she says. During the difficult early days, she talks about how Google helped her team reach our first customers through advertising and social media campaigns. "Google Forms allowed us to collect valuable feedback and use it to improve our design. Even today, all our sales are through social media and Google, and we create online content that helps customers." When asked about the team structure, she proudly mentions that her workforce is predominantly female, except in the financial sector. It was a rough start as a business that was worth only 33 thousand rupees in 2020. Currently, they are worth around 7 million. They have also received scholarships from Punjab, Shakti (Empathy Project), and Telangana Government through various schemes. Like the perfect businesswoman, she also reinvested the profits to reach her current position. Information about Vapra Composting? Who are They ~ Future Step Enterprise LLP is a social enterprise operating in the waste management sector. At Future Step Research, they develop and produce high-quality compost, composting machines, and composting solutions for organic waste and farm waste. They are proud to be part of a healthy lifestyle in society by reducing the risk of landfill sorting, reducing landfill incineration, and encouraging everyone to grow their food with their Vapra-The Composter product, as well as encouraging farmers to switch to organic farming with their composting solutions. It all started with a dream to sort and effectively recycle waste and help promote organic farming among farmers by turning organic waste into compost using ecological and sustainable processes. With all the research at DIY Lab-Vigyan Ashram in Pune and simultaneously in Hyderabad, Telangana ~ they worked for their dreams and gave all their efforts, wherein they failed many times, but never gave up and then created their master product. They love the environment and believe that it's their responsibility to keep our earth clean and healthy. The biggest problems they face are chemically grown food, lack of segregation resulting in landfills filled with more than 50% organic waste, and incineration of organic waste causing soil infertility. So they want to do their part to solve a small part of this problem. Decidedly committed to a sustainable future ~ Pavani Lolla and her Future Step have not only revolutionized composting but also set an inspiring example of social development. With a heartfelt vision of a landfill-free India, they are paving the way for a cleaner and greener tomorrow, with 'one compost bin at a time'. Managing kitchen waste is an important part of household waste management as it is estimated that a large portion of household waste comes from the kitchen. If kitchen waste is not properly treated, it can cause environmental problems, attract pests, and create unpleasant odors. In addition, it can also cause blockages in drainage systems and ultimately harm the environment. Finally, proper disposal of kitchen waste is important to reduce waste and protect the environment. Composting, recycling, and proper disposal are effective ways to manage kitchen waste. By practicing these methods, we can help reduce landfills and protect the environment. In addition, by composting food waste, we can save money and improve soil quality. Finally, it is important to educate yourself and others about the importance of proper kitchen waste management and its positive impact on the environment.

7 Mar 2024

Star Citizens

Teen Changemakers in India Transforming Society with Their Innovations!

In a remarkable display of determination and ingenuity, a group of Indian teenagers is making waves in their country by tackling some of the biggest challenges through their innovative solutions. These young changemakers, all below the age of 18, are redefining the future and inspiring others to take action. Archit Patil, a 17-year-old, has developed a revolutionary solution for postpartum blood loss. His "Archit PPH Cup" accurately measures post-delivery blood loss, helping doctors manage the condition and save lives. Archit's invention is now being used in nearly 50 hospitals across India. Nirvaan Somany, also 17, addresses the issue of homelessness by repurposing old denim jeans into sleeping bags for street dwellers. By providing warmth and comfort during harsh winters, his initiative called Project Jeans not only helps the environment but also offers a lifeline to those in need. Kashvi Jindal, 17, founded "Invest The Change," a social enterprise that empowers rural and underprivileged individuals by providing financial literacy and access to government schemes. Her efforts have benefited over 3,000 domestic workers and wage earners, enabling them to improve their financial well-being. These are just a few examples of the incredible work being done by these young visionaries. Through their perseverance and passion, they are proving that age is not a barrier to creating meaningful change. The stories of these teenage changemakers serve as an inspiration to all, reminding us that everyone has the power to make a difference. Their innovations and initiatives are not only transforming the lives of individuals but also shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for India.

12 Jan 2024

Star Citizens

The Bridge Man: How One Engineer Revolutionized Lives and Connected a Nation

In the quaint village of Aramburu in Karnataka where the Payaswini river flows gracefully, a small community relied on a fragile country boat to cross the river and access the mainland. However, whenever this boat developed a hole, their world came to a standstill . Then they decided to approach Girish Bharadwaj, a mechanical engineer who out of compassion stepped in to change their lives forever. Initially amused by the villagers' belief that all engineers could build bridges, Bharadwaj finally agreed to help them when he witnessed their dire circumstances. Drawing on knowledge from engineering friends and bridge-building books, he devised a low-cost hanging bridge through a community-driven effort. With the support of the villagers and some government assistance, the footbridge breathed new life into the community, sparking the birth of the "Bridge Man." The success of this bridge project caught the eye of a government official, propelling Bharadwaj on a journey that extended far beyond Aramburu. He adopted the technologies of iconic suspension bridges like San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and Japan's Akashi Kaikyo, simplifying them to suit local needs. His innovative suspension bridges proved to be cost-effective and resilient, standing the test of time, often surpassing their estimated lifespans. Over three decades, Bharadwaj, now fondly known as the Bridge Man, traversed the states of Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha, constructing over 130 bridges. These bridges not only connected remote villages but also uplifted the lives of countless people, earning him the esteemed Padma Shri award in 2017. The Bridge Man's journey was characterized by dedication and selflessness. In most projects, he and his team camped near the work sites, ensuring a hands-on approach to bridge construction that lasted for three to six months. Many of these endeavors were government-sponsored, while others relied on funds pooled by grateful villagers. In some cases, Bharadwaj even used his own resources to complete projects facing financial constraints. Although the demand for footbridges has waned in favor of larger RCC structures, Bharadwaj's impact on the lives of countless villagers endures. From a single act of kindness, he could bring a world of opportunities to entire communities and transform their lives for good.

25 Jul 2023

Star Citizens

IFS Officer Becomes First Indian to Win UNESCO's Prestigious Biosphere Reserve Honor

Bakan Jagdish Sudhakar, the wildlife warden of Ramanathapuram and director of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, has achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first Indian to be chosen for the esteemed Michel Batisse Award by UNESCO. This accolade recognizes his exceptional efforts in the management of biosphere reserves. Jagdish Sudhakar, an officer of the Indian Forest Service, will be presented with the $12,000 award and will also have the opportunity to deliver a lecture on his noteworthy case studies at a grand event scheduled to take place in Paris on June 14. The Michel Batisse Award, established in 2004 by UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, is bestowed once every two years in memory of Dr. Michel Batisse. It honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in biosphere reserve management. Out of the 16 eligible candidates nominated this year, Bakan Jagdish's case study titled "Development of Sustainable Livelihood and Community-Based Biodiversity Conservation and Environment Protection" caught the attention of the advisory committee members, leading to his selection for the 2023 award. Jagdish Sudhakar spoke enthusiastically about the various initiatives undertaken at the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, including the creation of plastic-free zones, mangrove forest management, community development, and species protection. With the Ministry of Environment and Forests' approval, his case studies were submitted to UNESCO's MAB Programme, ultimately leading to this prestigious recognition. Expressing his gratitude, Jagdish Sudhakar mentioned how honored and proud he feels to be the first Indian recipient of such a renowned award. This recognition serves as a motivation for him to intensify his efforts and bring about the much-needed positive change in his field. With Sudhakar's remarkable achievements, India's conservation efforts receive global acclaim, inspiring others to join in the vital task of preserving our planet's biodiversity.

6 Jun 2023

Star Citizens

One Teacher's Mission to Save Children from the Clutches of Cellphones

Tukaram Adsul, a dedicated teacher from Ahmednagar district, is on a mission to keep his students engaged and away from excessive cellphone usage. Every day, despite the scorching heat and challenging terrain, the 52-year-old zilla parishad teacher carries two bags filled with storybooks, novels, and comics to visit his students' homes near Gitewadi village. The children, currently enjoying their summer vacation, eagerly await his arrival to exchange the books they read the previous week. Since his transfer to Gitewadi in 2018, Adsul has been actively promoting a reading culture among the children. He established a library in the ZP school with the help of community participation and donations, housing hundreds of books. On Saturdays, he introduced a unique initiative where students come to school solely to read storybooks, leaving their school bags behind. Starting with illustrated books published by the State Council of Educational Research and Training, Adsul distributed books to underprivileged children. As they developed an interest in reading, they craved more. Adsul sought the help of villagers, encouraging them to donate books for birthdays and weddings. Understanding each student's preferences, he ensures to bring books tailored to their liking during his visits. Adsul's students have surpassed their age in terms of language proficiency, tackling newspapers and articles that resonate with them. His future plans include introducing English storybooks, gradually increasing the difficulty level. With every visit, Tukaram Adsul ignites a passion for reading within his students, ensuring that their summer vacations are filled with knowledge, imagination, and a lifelong love for books.

5 Jun 2023

Star Citizens

Post-Retirement, This 65-Year-Old Is Winning Laurels as a Tennis Champion

Alapati Suresh, a native of Guntur who has always been interested in sports, is now realizing his dream after retirement. Even though Suresh has been playing tennis for the past 30 years and has competed in little tournaments held by neighborhood sports groups, his profession prevented him from realizing his dream of playing in the major league. He retired in 2017 at the age of 60 after working as an assistant engineer in the irrigation division. Alapati, who calls tennis his stress reliever, claimed that playing the game helped him relax mentally and release stress in addition to improving his physical health. He used to devote two hours a day, every day, to practice the game. Suresh’s passion for the game saw him winning almost every inter-district tournament. He was encouraged by his peers to participate in state and national level games, but such big leagues would entail total dedication and his job prevented him from devoting the required time. Not one to lose heart, he decided to pursue his interest after retirement. He stunned everyone by winning 12 gold medals in various district and state-level events, as well as a gold medal and two silver medals in competitions organized on a national level by the Global Indian Senior Tennis Association. He also won the International Tennis Federation doubles in the 65-plus category. Apart from keeping him physically fit and free of ailments, Suresh believes that the sport has ingrained in him a sense of discipline and time management.

12 Jan 2023

Star Citizens

This Eighteen-Year-Old Social Entrepreneur’s Art Platform Is a Favorite of Art Lovers Worldwide!

Suhani Dadphale, an eighteen-year-old was not one to sit idle during the covid lockdown. She was fascinated to realize how Instagram can be a platform to help artists and content creators to reach out and perform. Suhani, on realizing that there was not enough platform for people to express their creativity, try new ideas, and develop new things, started Sangam in 2020 to support local artists, entrepreneurs, and creative minds by providing a platform for them to network, grow their businesses, and showcase their talents. From a team of three, Sangam soon expanded as like-minded people joined her mission to propagate art. The crew began planning events like music festivals and open mic nights by the end of 2020. The main platforms used for the online events were Zoom, Google Meet, and Instagram Live. Over the years, as Sangam grew Suhani gained clarity about her vision - to monetize art. She realized that in India, as art is not commercialized, it is still regarded as a luxury and not as a way of life. Through Sangam, Suhani gave the industry some sort of organization and helped artists get their due thus proving that it can be a stable revenue source, Suhani is currently a member of the Ashoka Young Changemakers cohort, which consists of young people working on important issues from all around the nation.

16 Nov 2022

Star Citizens

This Young Lad Works to Make Rural Women of Maharashtra Self-Reliant

Wasudev Mishra hails from a village in Maharashtra and he has seen many problems that people face on account of poverty and unemployment. He was very disturbed when his sister had to quit school and join a low budget school so that he could continue studying in English medium school. He learned many lessons in self-reliance during an exchange program in the US. On his return, he volunteered for different social projects. He soon realized that he wanted to help the rural women of his village by empowering them with skills that would help them earn. Silaigram Wasudev was only 19 years old when he founded Silaigram in 2018. Silaigram is a social impact startup that aims to provide sustainable livelihood in rural parts of India. Realizing that there was hardly any support for young girls and women to nurture their talent , he decided to empower them with opportunities. In India, tons of cloth waste is generated daily which finds its way into landfills and oceans. In Silaigram, this cloth waste is upscaled to make jholas and kurtis. One Of A Kind Design Lab When a woman worker made a wristband out of waste cloth, Wasudev was very impressed by the creativity .It encouraged him to start a one of a kind design lab for women where they are provided with the necessary material and they are free to make their own designs. This design lab is unique as the fabric design industry is mostly dominated by men. Last year, thousands of kilograms of waste cloth (including synthetic cloth) were upcycled thus preventing it from entering the ocean’s ecosystem. Wasudev was elected as Ashoka young Changemaker in recognition of his ability to bring a positive change. Image Source: YourStory

29 Oct 2019

Star Citizens

This Dynamic Lady Works Hard to Transform a City Through Efficient Waste Management Techniques

There is no doubt that dumping grounds are an eyesore and if any city has to truly become a smart city, then it needs to have an efficient waste management system. One cannot always blame the authorities as it is the responsibility of every citizen to discard waste properly through the segregation of dry and wet waste so that all the waste just doesn’t accumulate in landfills. However, when citizens and authorities turn a blind eye to an important matter, there are few responsible and concerned citizens who rise to the occasion and take things in their stride. One such person is Sajitha Nair who has been working relentlessly towards the treatment of dumping grounds in Kalyan as well as spreading awareness about the need to segregate and discard waste in a responsible manner. Sajitha would always worry about the growing height of the Adharwadi dumping ground in Kalyan. When no action was taken in spite of numerous requests and petitions filed, Sajitha along with a team of volunteers actually got into the dumping ground and worked on it. Sourcing water from a nearby sewage treatment plant, Sajitha and her team used organic culture to decompose the filth. With her impressive waste management technology, the team succeeded in reducing the height of a section of the dumping ground by 16 feet in just 65-70 days. The engineers and waste management team of the municipality were amazed at the rapid speed of decomposition of garbage. Sajitha and her team were also invited to demonstrate her waste management technology to the CM of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis who was very impressed and assured all help. Sajitha continues to give waste management training sessions to housing societies with the effect that residents are now aware of and follow the proper methods of waste disposal. She also actively participates in forums and meets that strive to enhance the quality of life in the city and is a contributor to awareness drives, cultural, social and ecological initiatives. Sajitha inspires us to come out of our comfort zones and become responsible citizens by doing what is needed for our society. Let us all be inspired by our star citizen-Sajitha Nair.

14 Oct 2019

Star Citizens

Rajasthan Girl’s Fight Against Child Marriages Makes Her the First Indian to Win the ‘Changemaker’ Award

A few years ago, Payal Jangid was being pushed into child marriage to which she firmly resisted and stood her stand. She continues to fight for the other girls of her village who are forced into child marriages. On Tuesday Payal’s efforts were recognized by The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which presented her with the "Changemaker" award for her fight against child marriages. Jangid literally started a campaign against child labor and child marriages. She along with her supporters would organize rallies, posters, paint walls, go house to house and speak to the families. They left no stone unturned to convince elders that they were depriving the girls of their right to a proper education by marrying them off early. The Foundation posted a video on Twitter in which Jangid gives details of the challenges faced by girls in Hinsla village, about 100 km from Jaipur. She not only spreads awareness about the adverse effects of child marriage on girls but also persuades parents to continue the education of their girls. Despite receiving threats from some sections of the society, Jangid persevered with her efforts to eradicate the practice of child marriages so that every girl gets a chance to progress in society. Image Source: YourStory

27 Sep 2019

Star Citizens

Positive Reads

No Gas, No Flames: How an Akola School Runs a Fully Sustainable Kitchen

In a remarkable example of innovation meeting sustainability, Prabhat Day Boarding School in Akola has been operating a completely LPG-free kitchen for nearly a decade. Feeding around 1,500 students every single day, the school has adopted a unique “flameless” cooking system that is not only eco-friendly but also efficient, safe, and cost-effective. At a time when rising fuel costs and supply disruptions are affecting households and institutions across the country, this school stands as a quiet yet powerful example of self-reliance and forward thinking.The Science Behind the Flameless KitchenThe backbone of this innovation lies in a biomass-based thermic fluid heating system. Instead of traditional gas stoves, the kitchen uses heated oil that circulates through pipes to cook food. This system eliminates the need for open flames entirely. The process works by burning biomass pellets made from agricultural waste, which heat the thermic fluid. This heated oil then transfers energy to cooking vessels in a controlled and consistent manner. The result is a stable cooking environment with uniform heat distribution, making large-scale meal preparation both efficient and reliable. This approach is not only technologically smart but also environmentally responsible, as it repurposes farm waste that would otherwise go unused or be burned in fields.A Decade of Sustainable SuccessWhat makes this initiative even more impressive is its longevity. Installed nearly ten years ago, the system has continued to function smoothly, demonstrating that sustainable solutions are not just experimental ideas but practical, long-term alternatives. Over the years, the kitchen has consistently prepared meals for thousands of students without relying on LPG cylinders. This independence from commercial fuel sources has shielded the school from price volatility and supply shortages, ensuring uninterrupted service. In many ways, the school anticipated challenges that others are only beginning to face now.A Safer and More Comfortable Kitchen EnvironmentBeyond efficiency and sustainability, the impact of this system is deeply human. Traditional large kitchens are often extremely hot and physically demanding spaces, especially in India’s climate. The constant heat from open flames can make working conditions difficult for staff. However, the absence of open flames in this kitchen significantly reduces ambient temperature, making the space cooler, safer, and more comfortable. This not only improves working conditions but also enhances productivity and well-being. Additionally, the risk of accidents such as gas leaks or cylinder explosions is virtually eliminated. In a setting where safety is paramount, especially when feeding large numbers daily, this innovation brings invaluable peace of mind.Environmental Impact: A Cleaner Way ForwardOne of the most significant advantages of this system is its contribution to environmental sustainability. By using biomass instead of fossil fuels, the kitchen produces negligible carbon emissions compared to conventional LPG-based cooking. This reduction in emissions plays a small but meaningful role in addressing larger environmental challenges such as air pollution and climate change. It also aligns with India’s broader goals of promoting clean energy and reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In essence, every meal prepared in this kitchen is not just food for students it is also a step toward a cleaner planet.Leading by ExampleWhat Prabhat Day Boarding School has achieved goes beyond its own campus. It sets an example for schools, colleges, and institutions across India to explore sustainable alternatives in their operations. If replicated on a larger scale, such systems could significantly reduce fuel consumption, lower costs, and contribute to environmental conservation. More importantly, they can inspire a culture of innovation rooted in responsibility. The story of this Akola school is a powerful reminder that the future of sustainability is not something distant it is already here, quietly functioning in places we might least expect. By choosing a path that combines practicality with environmental consciousness, Prabhat Day Boarding School has shown that even everyday systems like a kitchen can become agents of change. As thousands of meals are served daily without a single flame, one thing becomes clear: sometimes, the most impactful revolutions are the ones that happen silently, yet consistently, shaping a better tomorrow.

18 Mar 2026

Positive Reads

From Palm Leaves to Algorithms: Sanskrit Enters the Machine Age

In a quiet room filled with palm-leaf manuscripts, the past is meeting the future. As the world races ahead with artificial intelligence trained on modern languages and internet data, India has taken a deeply rooted and ambitious step developing its first native Sanskrit Large Language Model (LLM) using more than 110,000 rare manuscripts. This is not merely a technological project; it is a civilisational moment, where centuries-old knowledge systems are being reimagined for the digital age. Led by a unique collaboration between the 118-year-old Madras Sanskrit College, IIT Madras, and the Kuppuswami Sastri Research Institute in Chennai, the initiative seeks to build an AI that does not just read Sanskrit but truly understands it.A Collaboration Across CenturiesWhat makes this project extraordinary is the unlikely yet powerful partnership behind it. On one side stand traditional Sanskrit scholars, custodians of texts passed down through generations. On the other are engineers and computer scientists from IIT Madras, experts in algorithms, data and machine learning. Madras Sanskrit College, established in 1906, brings with it a living tradition of Sanskrit education. The Kuppuswami Sastri Research Institute contributes decades of research and preservation of classical texts. IIT Madras provides the technological backbone. Together, they represent a rare bridge between India’s intellectual past and its technological future.Building an AI That Thinks in SanskritUnlike most language models that rely on translation or surface-level pattern matching, this Sanskrit LLM is being built from the ground up. The goal is not to create another Optical Character Recognition tool or a simple translator, but an AI that understands the logical, grammatical and semantic depth of Sanskrit. Sanskrit is a highly structured language, governed by precise grammatical rules laid down by scholars like Panini over 2,000 years ago. Concepts such as Sandhi, where sounds merge and transform, and complex sentence constructions make the language challenging even for modern computers. This project aims to teach AI these rules intrinsically, allowing it to reason through Sanskrit rather than approximate it.Digitising 110,000 Manuscripts with PrecisionAt the heart of the project lies a massive digitisation effort. Over 110,000 rare manuscripts, including palm-leaf texts and classical Shastras, are being converted into machine-readable digital formats. These texts span literature, philosophy, logic, mathematics, astronomy, medicine and metaphysics. Custom-built software has already digitised more than 70,000 Sanskrit books with an impressive 97 percent accuracy. But technology alone is not trusted blindly. Sanskrit scholars carefully verify, correct and curate the digitised texts before they are used to train the AI. This human-in-the-loop approach ensures that errors do not compound and that the AI learns from authentic, reliable sources.Precision-First AI: A New Language Model PhilosophyThis project represents a shift towards what researchers call “precision-first” language modelling. Instead of training AI on vast amounts of loosely structured data and letting it guess patterns, the Sanskrit LLM is being trained to respect structure, logic and rule-based reasoning. Sanskrit’s grammar is almost mathematical in nature, making it uniquely suited for such an approach. By embedding these rules into AI systems, researchers believe Sanskrit could become a computational language—a medium through which machines reason more accurately, consistently and transparently.A Historic BeginningIndia’s first Sanskrit LLM is more than an AI experiment; it is a statement. It says that progress does not require forgetting the past and that ancient wisdom still has a role to play in shaping tomorrow’s technology. As palm-leaf manuscripts become lines of code, India is quietly redefining what the future of artificial intelligence can look like: rooted, rigorous and remarkably human.

30 Jan 2026

Positive Reads

Shreya Nallamothu: The Teen Behind America’s First Law Protecting Child Influencers

In the early months of the 2020 pandemic, when the world was locked indoors and teenagers were glued to screens for comfort, entertainment, and connection, 13-year-old Shreya Nallamothu from Illinois stumbled upon a question that would change U.S. law. As she scrolled through Instagram, YouTube, like millions of kids her age, something began to bother her. She watched child influencers, some barely able to speak, performing skits, unboxing toys, sharing their lives online, and earning massive views. The content looked innocent and fun, but beneath the surface, Shreya sensed something troubling. These children were working. They were generating income. And yet, they had no legal protections. That moment of curiosity grew into a realization: while the digital world had evolved at lightning speed, the law had not kept up. Child actors in Hollywood were protected by the Coogan Law of 1939, which required parents to save a portion of their children’s earnings. But no such law existed for child influencers despite the fact that many of them were earning money through sponsorships, brand deals, and ad revenue. The deeper Shreya dug, the more she uncovered a hidden crisis.A Legal Blind Spot Hidden in Plain SightShreya learned that social media platforms did not allow minors to legally run their own accounts. Instead, all earnings went directly to the parents who managed these channels. There were no guidelines, no mandatory savings, and no accountability. Parents could use every dollar earned by their children without leaving them a single cent. For Shreya, the injustice felt personal. The idea that thousands of children were unknowingly contributing to family incomes without being assured their own financial security was troubling. Many of these kids were too young to understand the consequences, too trusting to question adults, and too visible in a digital world that never forgets. It was a blind spot so obvious in hindsight that adult lawmakers and digital regulators had simply overlooked it. But a 13-year-old saw what millions did not.A Letter That Sparked a Political MovementInstead of accepting the problem as too big for someone her age, Shreya decided to act. She sat down and wrote a detailed, thoughtful letter to Illinois State Senator Dave Koehler. In it, she explained how child influencers were generating substantial income yet had no legal right to their own earnings. She pointed out the contrast between traditional entertainment laws and the ungoverned digital creator world. She argued that the law needed to evolve. Her letter struck a chord. Senator Koehler, impressed by her clarity and courage, invited her to collaborate with his team. Together, they drafted a groundbreaking bill, the Child Social Media Influencer Protection Act. This proposed law would require parents to deposit at least 15% of a child influencer’s earnings into a blocked trust account, money that the child alone could access upon reaching adulthood. It also ensured that children had rights over the content featuring them.Fighting to Create HistoryPassing the bill was not easy. Many lawmakers initially dismissed the issue, believing that influencer income was too small or that family matters should remain private. Some viewed it as a niche problem. Others thought regulation was unnecessary. But Shreya persisted, armed with research, comparisons to existing child labor laws, and real-life examples of exploitation. Her determination paid off. Lawmakers from both major parties began to recognize the urgency. They realized that in an age where children could amass millions of followers and earn substantial revenue, the law needed to offer protection. In 2023, Illinois became the first state in the United States to pass a law safeguarding the earnings of child influencers. It was a historic victory, one that echoed far beyond Illinois.An Effect Across the NationShreya’s success proved that youth activism is not symbolic; it can reshape systems. Two years later, in 2025, California passed its own influencer protection law, inspired partly by Illinois. Other states began discussions. Experts and lawmakers across the country referenced Shreya’s advocacy as a turning point. Federal conversations began forming around the need for nationwide protections for young digital creators. For Shreya, who is now a Robertson Scholar at Duke University, the achievement marked not just a victory for child influencers, but a victory for youth leadership. Her work demonstrated that young people understand the digital world more deeply than many adults—and that they have both the clarity and courage to challenge outdated systems.A New Generation of ChangemakersShreya’s story is part of a powerful movement led by young Indians in the diaspora who are using their voices to create meaningful change. From climate activist Kevin Patel pushing for environmental justice in California to teenage scientist Gitanjali Rao tackling water contamination and cyberbullying, young Indian-origin leaders are shaping public policy, science, and civic action. They carry forward values of education, responsibility, and justice instilled by immigrant families, proving that age is not a barrier to impact. Shreya stands among them, an unexpected activist who turned a simple question into a historic reform.

13 Dec 2025

Positive Reads

A Princess With Purpose: The Woman Leading the Fight to End Child Marriage

Every three seconds, somewhere in the world, a young girl is forced into marriage. UNICEF reports that 12 million girls could become child brides this year alone. Behind every number is a childhood cut short—a girl pulled out of school, silenced, and pushed into adulthood too soon. Amid this painful global reality, one woman from the Dutch royal family has made it her life’s mission to fight for these girls: Princess Mabel van Oranje.The Spark: A Wedding That Changed EverythingIn 2018, Princess Mabel attended a wedding where the couple asked for donations instead of gifts. It struck her deeply. She realized that if one wedding could inspire generosity, then thousands of weddings could spark a movement. This simple yet powerful idea became the foundation of VOW for Girls, a nonprofit she created to turn celebrations of love into opportunities for millions of girls worldwide. Mabel has spent her life fighting for human rights, from co-founding War Child Netherlands to helping launch Girls Not Brides, the world’s largest partnership dedicated to ending child marriage. But VOW became her most emotional and personal commitment.VOW for Girls: How Love Funds FreedomThe core idea behind VOW for Girls is beautifully simple , the organization invites wedding couples to create a charitable registry where guests donate to the cause instead of giving traditional gifts, allowing couples to use the joy of their big day to create real change. And the impact has been remarkable. More than 8,000 couples have already contributed, helping VOW directly support over 260,000 girls. Every rupee and every dollar donated goes straight to grassroots organizations working on the frontlines. Through these efforts, girls are able to continue their education, access healthcare, receive vocational training, build confidence and leadership skills, escape forced marriages, and ultimately break long-standing cycles of poverty. VOW collaborates with 177 community-led groups across Asia, Africa, and Latin America—regions where child marriage is most widespread. What makes the initiative even more powerful is that many of these groups are led by women and girls who once faced the same threat of early marriage themselves, making their work deeply human, emotionally grounded, and truly transformative.Why Child Marriage Still HappensChild marriage continues for several painful and interconnected reasons, including poverty, where families view early marriage as a form of economic security; lack of education, which leaves girls who are out of school far more vulnerable; deeply rooted cultural norms that sustain harmful traditions; and persistent gender inequality that treats girls as burdens rather than individuals with rights and potential. Princess Mabel understands that these issues cannot be solved from a distance, which is why VOW for Girls works closely with local leaders—people who understand the culture, know the families personally, and approach the community with trust, compassion, and long-term commitment.A Princess with a PurposePrincess Mabel’s story is not only about royal titles or global recognition. It is about a woman who turned her personal heartbreak and life experiences into a mission. She lost her husband, Prince Friso, in 2013, and instead of stepping back from public life, she poured her strength into helping others. With thousands of couples joining the movement and communities around the world taking the lead, this dream feels possible. Princess Mabel often says that once you know the reality of child marriage, you cannot look away. And once you see what empowered girls can achieve, you cannot help but fight for them. Princess Mabel’s journey reminds us that change begins with a simple idea and a compassionate heart. Her work is not just about stopping child marriage. It is about giving every girl the right to learn, dream, choose, and live freely.

19 Nov 2025

Positive Reads

From Litter to Legacy: India-Norway Pact Cuts Agra's Waste by the Ton!

Agra, the city that echoes tales of eternal love through the timeless Taj Mahal is scripting a new story, one far removed from just pethas and pristine white marble. While it remains a magnet for tourists, Agra has quietly been brewing a green revolution. With the support of the India–Norway Marine Pollution Initiative (INMPI), this heritage city is tackling a less glamorous but crucial concern - waste. From transforming industrial discards to battling plastic invaders in the Yamuna, Agra is carving a path that other cities might soon want to follow.Soles to Solutions: Agra’s Footwear Waste RethinkHome to nearly 65% of India's footwear production, Agra churns out almost a million pairs of shoes a day, and with it, 45 tonnes of waste. The streets echo with the sound of artisans crafting soles along with the growing need to handle this industrial footprint. In response, the Agra Municipal Corporation has stepped in with structured systems to channel this waste to a centralized hub at the Kuberpur dumpsite. But that's not where the story ends, this high-energy waste is being eyed for transformation into electricity via a Waste-to-Energy plant by 2026. Meanwhile, the city’s informal units and self-help groups are being woven into a larger tapestry of reuse and recycling, making waste a resource.Sweet Scraps & Sacred Dung: Agra’s Organic AlchemyBehind the sugary delight of Agra’s famous petha lies a bittersweet trail of organic waste. But in Agra 2.0, even this finds a meaningful end. Pre-consumer petha scraps are now managed with precision, ensuring they don’t pile up into a sugary mess. Additionally, cow dung from the city is processed by a local third-party into compost, which is transported to Kuberpur and sold as organic manure. This supports local farmers and helps Agra move toward its zero-waste goals.Agra's Mission Green: Transforming Drains & PlasticsThe Yamuna, once a divine stream, now struggles under the weight of urban neglect, especially plastic. An intensive mapping project was launched across the city to trace major drains to lesser-known garbage hotspots. Net traps capture the culprits - bottles, wrappers, sachets, and the silent killers: Multi-Layered Plastics. Seasonal floods turn vulnerable points into rivers of plastic, while storm drains become sneaky pipelines to the Yamuna. Teams of local workers have been boots-on-ground, collecting, cataloging, and classifying waste, setting the stage for city-wide interventions.Where Tradition Meets Transition: Agra’s Urban Awakening Agra’s green shift is not just about waste bins and data. It’s about a city that respects its heritage while embracing the urgency of change. With scientific insight, civic muscle, and international collaboration, Agra is crafting a future where environmental responsibility is as iconic as its monuments.With great touristic value comes the great responsibility of extra mindfulness and care and Agra is acing both. It’s no longer just the city of the Taj, it’s the city that’s turning waste into wisdom.

19 Apr 2025

Positive Reads

Chennai’s Hidden Water Heroes: Playgrounds That Harvest Rain!

Remember those carefree childhood days spent racing down slides, swinging sky-high, or chasing friends across playgrounds until the rain poured in? Now, Chennai is giving those joyful spots a grown-up superpower. In a city where monsoons can feel like either a blessing or a waterlogged curse, officials have decided to turn a problem into pure potential by transforming our everyday playgrounds into secret rainwater pits.Yup, while kids play hopscotch and cricket above ground, something amazing is happening underneath. Hidden rainwater harvesting systems are quietly collecting rainwater, filtering it, and sending it straight into the earth to recharge our thirsty ground. The Secret Beneath the SwingsIn neighbourhoods like Anna Nagar and Teynampet, playgrounds are doing more than just offering a space for children to play—they’re quietly becoming part of the city’s water management system. Beneath the familiar slides and swing sets, engineers have installed six-foot-deep rainwater harvesting pits. These pits are thoughtfully designed with layers of geo-fabric, eco-blocks, and specialised filters that help trap silt and other debris.When it rains, the water doesn't just run off and pool on the surface. Instead, it is guided through these filtration systems, allowing only clean water to seep into the soil and recharge the groundwater. And when the soil reaches its absorption limit, any excess water is safely channelled into the stormwater drains, reducing the risk of waterlogging or flooding in the area.By integrating these systems into everyday public spaces like playgrounds, the city is making smart use of available land—creating green infrastructure that not only serves the community above ground but also strengthens its resilience below the surface.Monsoon Magic Under Chennai’s PlaygroundsWhile children run around, play football, or take turns on the swings, something remarkable is happening underfoot. The ground is absorbing and storing rainwater, helping the city prepare for drier days. It’s a simple, thoughtful solution—one that doesn’t need fanfare or attention to make an impact.This project is a gentle reminder that even the most familiar spaces can hold new purpose. The playgrounds where many grew up chasing puddles and monsoon memories are now doing their part to shape a more sustainable future.Chennai’s approach shows that real change doesn’t always come from big gestures—it can start with a quiet idea and a whole lot of care. So next time it rains, look beyond the splash. Something good is happening, right under our feet.

8 Apr 2025

Positive Reads

From Your Mail Inbox Overload to Mental Breakdown : How to Reduce Work Related Stress

Everybody has been there. That sense of sinking on a Sunday night as Monday's shadow begins to approach. Although everyone experiences work stress, it shouldn't be a badge of honor. Prolonged stress can negatively impact both our physical and mental health. Let's examine the science of working stress. We'll look at the offenders, the fallout, and—most importantly—give you advice on how to get back your composure at work. Workplace stress can stem from various factors, some more obvious than others. Here are a few common foes: Heavy Workload: Feeling perpetually swamped with tasks can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Lack of Control: When you have little say in your workload or deadlines, it can be demotivating and stressful. Poor Communication: Unclear expectations and miscommunication can lead to confusion and frustration. Toxic Work Culture: Negative office dynamics, bullying, or lack of support can make even the simplest tasks feel like uphill battles. Work-Life Imbalance: The ever-present pressure to be "always on" blurs the lines and can lead to burnout. Stress At Work Space Can Cause Frustrating Outcomes ~ Your Thoughts Are Blank Space ~ Realign them & Channelise Towards Elimination of Overthinking (Source- Google Images) Creation of Anxious Lifestyle ~ Stress can elicit a variety of emotions, such as worry and irritation, and makes it difficult for us to unwind. Stress can make it harder for us to focus. We can feel queasy or unable to sleep, or we might get headaches or other body aches. Sometimes we experience appetite loss or overindulgence in food. Prolonged stress can exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions and lead to a rise in alcohol, tobacco, and other drug consumption. Trigger Unusual Patterns In One's Mental State ~ Stressful circumstances can also lead to or worsen mental health issues, the most frequent of which are anxiety and depression, which call for medical attention. When we experience mental health symptoms, it could be because these symptoms have started to interfere with our everyday functioning, including our ability to operate at work. A Peaceful Reminder ~ It's In Human Nature: Yes, it is normal to experience stress when faced with difficult circumstances like job interviews, tests, unreasonable workloads, precarious employment, or disagreements with family, friends, or coworkers. Many people experience a decrease in stress as things get better or as they develop emotional coping mechanisms. Events like significant economic downturns, disease outbreaks, natural disasters, war, and acts of communal violence can result in high levels of stress. Stress Less, Act Accordingly ~ (Source: Google Images) Tips to Handle Workplace Stress ~ Here are some research-backed methods to handle workplace stress before you go into full meltdown mode: Establish Boundaries: When necessary, learn to say "no" and assign duties to others. Time management is a critical component of stress management. Make Organization a Priority: To tackle things efficiently, make sure your to-do lists and calendar are clear. Effective Communication: Say something when you're feeling overburdened or confused about what's expected of you. Accept Pauses: The ability to de-stress with brief walks, deep breathing exercises, or even a quick meditation session should not be undervalued. Establish limits on work emails and notifications sent outside of regular business hours. Disconnect to Reconnect. It's acceptable to turn it off! Seek Support: Discuss your stress with a therapist, friend, or dependable coworker. Healthy Habits Rule: Make sleep a priority, work out frequently, and eat a balanced diet. These routines strengthen your ability to withstand stress. Further Adding to the previous point ~ Maintain your health with a diet and exercise regimen. Overemphasizing work might make it simple to overlook your physical well-being. However, you become more resistant to stress when you take care of your health with proper diet and exercise. It's not necessary to completely change your lifestyle to take care of yourself. Little things have the power to uplift your spirits, give you more energy, and give you a sense of control again. Break negative thought patterns and behaviors that exacerbate work-related stress. Many of us are guilty of this. You'll find it easier to deal with stress caused by your workplace if you can change these counterproductive habits. Avoid being too flawless~ You're inviting failure into your life when you set unattainable expectations for yourself. Nobody can ask for more than you to try your hardest. Turn around your pessimistic thoughts ~ You will become depleted of motivation and energy if all you think about is the bad in every circumstance and relationship. Even if no one else does, try to have a positive outlook on your work, stay away from unsupportive coworkers, and give yourself a pat on the head for little victories. Avoid attempting to manage the unmanageable ~ At work, a lot of things are out of our control, especially other people's actions. Focus on the things you can control, including how you choose to respond to issues, rather than letting them worry you out. See the comedy in the circumstances ~ Humor is a terrific stress reliever at work when applied properly. Find a method to lighten the mood by telling a joke or amusing anecdote when you or people around you start taking work too seriously. Tidy up your behavior ~ Simply knowing where everything is can save time and reduce stress if your desk or work area is disorganized. File and discard the clutter. Planning Things Always Saves The Toxic Work Culture ~ ( Source: Google Images ) Always recall that you are not alone. Stress at work is a common problem. I would say be the master of your mind! You can take back control and create a happier, healthier work environment by comprehending the reasons, appreciating the effects, and putting these easy suggestions into practice. Instead of spiraling out of control, let's transform those Sunday night blues into a subdued "work tomorrow" sigh. When you take responsibility for your health, your happiness and productivity will rise!

17 May 2024

Positive Reads

Awakening Minds: World Mental Health Day's Global Impact

Buckle up for a mental health revolution! World Mental Health Day, celebrated on October 10, 1992, thanks to the visionary minds at the World Federation for Mental Health, has transformed into a buzzing, worldwide hub for championing vital mental health matters. This extraordinary annual event is a beacon of change, igniting minds and hearts across the globe. The mission is simple yet profound - to shout out loud and clear, to awaken minds, and drive transformative shifts in attitudes and actions. Today we are celebrating 75 years of mental health advocacy aligning with the theme of World Mental Health Day 2023 – 'Mental Health is a Universal Human Right. The campaign asserts that mental well-being should be accessible to all, emphasizing that it's not a privilege but a basic human right, akin to physical health. It advocates for a society free from the chains of stigma, discrimination, and neglect surrounding mental health. This global movement invites everyone to jump in, from your next-door neighbor to international organizations, united for a cause that touches every soul. Through theme-based global events and diverse digital expressions, the campaign aims to raise awareness and underscore the significance of mental health. As we unite to spotlight the importance of mental health as an essential universal human right, let's envision a world that values and nurtures the well-being of every individual.

10 Oct 2023

Positive Reads

BAF Hasiru Initiative Promotes Sustainable Wastewater Treatment in Bengaluru

In a commendable effort to tackle the water crisis in Bengaluru, the Bangalore Apartment Federation (BAF) has launched the 'BAF Hasiru' initiative, which seeks to promote the efficient consumption of treated wastewater for various purposes. With the city generating a staggering 2,000 million liters per day (MLD) of wastewater, this initiative holds great potential for sustainable water management. The BAF Hasiru program aims to create awareness among citizens about the importance of utilizing treated wastewater instead of relying solely on freshwater sources. By treating 700 MLD of wastewater for multiple tertiary uses, apartments can become significant suppliers of this valuable resource. To kickstart the initiative, a workshop called 'Retrofit' was organized, focusing on energy and water efficiency measures, as well as sustainable solutions. With over 1,240 apartments and Resident Welfare Associations (RWA) representing nearly 300,000 households as members of BAF, the scope for impact is substantial. However, the question that arises is whether the 'BAF Hasiru' initiative can truly revolutionize wastewater treatment in Bengaluru. Can it effectively change the mindset of citizens and encourage them to adopt sustainable practices? Will it lead to a significant reduction in the city's water consumption? These are crucial aspects that need to be explored. By promoting the responsible and efficient use of treated wastewater, BAF Hasiru has the potential to transform Bengaluru's water management landscape. It is a step towards a sustainable future, but its success will ultimately depend on the participation and commitment of the citizens.

25 Sep 2023

Positive Reads

Rivers Must Flow: Bold Action Needed on World Water Day

March 22nd marks a pivotal day for our planet: World Water Day. It's a time when people from all corners of the globe come together to raise awareness about the importance of freshwater and advocate for sustainable management of our precious water resources. It's a day when the future of our rivers hangs in the balance. For years, our rivers have been under severe threat from overexploitation, pollution, and climate change. These vital waterways are the lifeblood of our planet, providing essential resources for our daily lives, from drinking water to irrigation. But, unless we take immediate action, our rivers will continue to face an uncertain future. One of the most effective ways to protect our rivers is through planting trees to promote healthy river ecosystems. Trees are vital for the health of our rivers. They help to reduce soil erosion, which can cause sediment to build up in rivers. Trees also provide shade, which helps to regulate water temperatures and reduce the risk of harmful algal blooms. Furthermore, trees help to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil, reducing the risk of flooding and erosion. Planting trees along riverbanks and in riparian areas is an effective way to protect our rivers. Riparian areas are the transitional zones between land and water, and they are some of the most ecologically diverse habitats in the world. Planting trees in these areas helps to stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and provide a buffer against pollution and runoff. Furthermore, reducing the amount of pollution entering our rivers is critical for their protection. Reducing the use of harmful chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers, and properly disposing of waste can help to improve water quality. On this World Water Day, we must all come together and recognize the importance of conserving water to save our rivers. It's time to take bold and decisive action to safeguard these precious waterways for future generations. Let's take a stand and make a difference by promoting sustainable water management practices and embracing innovative solutions that protect our rivers from harm. Because, in the end, the fate of our rivers is the fate of our planet.

22 Mar 2023

Positive Reads

Wanderlust

Where Time Stands Eternal: The Grand Egyptian Museum and Egypt’s Living Legacy

Near one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Egypt has unveiled what many call the cultural wonder of the modern age, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). After two decades of planning, delays, and over $1 billion in investment, the museum finally opened its doors to the public, promising to redefine how humanity experiences ancient Egyptian civilization. Located just 2 km from the Pyramids of Giza and 8 km from Cairo, the GEM stands as the world’s largest archaeological museum devoted to a single civilization. It brings together more than 100,000 artifacts, spanning from Egypt’s pre-dynastic period to the Greek and Roman eras—a journey through seven millennia of human history.The Heart of Egypt’s HeritageEgypt’s identity has always been deeply rooted in its ancient past, in its kings, queens, gods, and monuments that continue to fascinate the world. The Grand Egyptian Museum serves as both a symbol of national pride and a global cultural hub, showcasing treasures that narrate humanity’s earliest stories of art, architecture, and belief. For Egyptologists, the GEM’s opening also strengthens calls for the repatriation of key Egyptian antiquities held overseas, including the famous Rosetta Stone housed in the British Museum. They argue that Egypt, through GEM, has built the perfect home for its long-lost heritage.An Architectural Marvel The museum’s design itself is a tribute to the pyramids beside it. Created by Heneghan Peng Architects, an Irish firm, the building is shaped like a chamfered triangle, echoing the geometry of the three pyramids Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Its north and south walls align perfectly with the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Menkaure, creating a visual dialogue between ancient stone and modern design. Built with sand-colored concrete, alabaster, and frosted glass, the museum’s façade glows softly under the desert sun, blending past and present in harmony. The complex, spanning nearly 500,000 square meters, includes not only the main exhibition halls but also a conference center, Nile Valley park, Khufu Boat Museum, and a conservation center where ancient treasures are restored with modern precision.The King Returns: Tutankhamun GalleryThe emotional heart of the museum is the Tutankhamun Gallery, a 7,500-square-meter space dedicated to the boy king whose tomb, discovered in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter, stunned the world. For the first time in history, all 5,000 artifacts from King Tut’s tomb—his golden mask, throne, sarcophagus, chariots, and jewelry—are displayed together. The gallery recreates the ambience of his burial chamber, allowing visitors to step back 3,400 years and witness the splendor of Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty. Tutankhamun, who ascended the throne at just nine years old and died before turning nineteen, became a symbol of both youth and immortality—a connection that resonates deeply with modern Egyptians who see him as a reminder that greatness can come at any age.A Grand Welcome: The Statue of Ramses IIVisitors entering the GEM are greeted by an awe-inspiring 83-tonne, 3,200-year-old statue of King Ramses II, one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs. The statue, which once stood in Cairo’s bustling Ramses Square, was carefully transported upright on a 128-wheel vehicle to its new home, 30 kilometers away. The relocation was not just an engineering marvel; it was a symbolic journey, moving Egypt’s monumental legacy from chaos into curation, from the noise of the modern city to the serenity of heritage.The Khufu Boat: A Voyage Through TimeAmong GEM’s treasures is the 4,500-year-old wooden boat of Pharaoh Khufu, the builder of the Great Pyramid. Believed to have been used for the pharaoh’s journey to the afterlife, the boat is one of the oldest intact ships in the world. Now carefully preserved within the museum, it offers visitors a tangible connection to Egypt’s belief in life beyond death—a reminder of how the ancient Egyptians saw the journey of the soul as eternal. The GEM focuses on a single, continuous civilization, making it a living encyclopedia of ancient Egypt.Tourism and National RevivalEgypt’s tourism sector, a major contributor to its economy, is expected to soar further with GEM’s opening. In 2024, Egypt welcomed a record 15.7 million tourists, with travel and tourism contributing around 8% of its GDP. The museum’s opening marks not just a cultural milestone but also a message of resilience—a declaration that despite revolutions, pandemics, and delays, Egypt’s story continues to shine. Walking through the Grand Egyptian Museum is more than an educational experience; it’s an emotional one. Each statue, coffin, and carving whispers the same truth: human civilization began here, on the banks of the Nile.

9 Nov 2025

Wanderlust

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Bengaluru's Metro Medians Get a Green Makeover: Compost Gardens

Imagine zipping through Bengaluru’s bustling metro lines and catching sight of vibrant green gardens blooming in the middle of concrete medians. In an exciting move towards urban sustainability, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has joined hands with Pelican Kenterra and Wipro Foundation to roll out India’s first soil-less, compost-based gardens along metro corridors. Not only do these lush green pockets add beauty to the cityscape, but they also champion a powerful environmental cause—reducing soil mining from farmlands and mountains, curbing construction waste dumping, and creating a sustainable outlet for compost use.A Sustainable Solution for Waste ManagementThe project involves collecting reject compost and garden waste including fallen palm tree leaves and garden clippings from residential communities and commercial establishments. This waste is then used to create a soil-less gardening material using proprietary technology. Eco-friendly microbial inoculants help decompose the waste and convert it into nutrient-rich, low-salinity planting material that's ideal for growing plants without soil. The result is a vibrant and thriving garden that not only beautifies the metro medians but also provides a sustainable solution for waste management. The project's success has been evident in the 100-metre trial stretch installed by Kenterra near the Manjunath Nagar metro station, where over 20 metric tonnes of compost were used to fill the medians between five pillars.Transforming Metro Medians into Green SpacesKenterra's innovative approach to compost gardening has transformed the metro medians into lush green spaces. The company's proprietary technology has enabled the creation of a soil-less gardening material that is not only sustainable but also aesthetically pleasing. The gardens are planted with ornamental plants, adding a touch of beauty to the metro medians. The success of the trial stretch has led to the BMRCL allotting an additional five kilometres of metro medians between HSR Layout and Bellandur for compost gardening.The BMRCL's commitment to sustainability is evident in its collaboration with Pelican Kenterra and Wipro Foundation. The project's focus on reducing soil mining and promoting sustainable waste management practices aligns with the BMRCL's core goal of promoting efficient public transport, reducing private vehicle use, and ultimately lowering emissions. A BMRCL spokesperson said, "We never imagined that our medians could serve as a solution for waste management in the city. The BMRCL is committed to supporting such green initiatives."A New Era in Urban PlanningThe compost gardening project in Bengaluru's metro medians marks a new era in urban planning. By incorporating sustainable practices and innovative technologies, the project has transformed the metro medians into vibrant green spaces. The project's success has the potential to be replicated in other cities, providing a model for sustainable urban planning. As cities continue to grow and develop, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

14 Apr 2025

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Water You Waiting For? Vasudha Aqua's Innovative Approach to Conservation

As the world's most populous nation, India is facing a daunting challenge: a severe water crisis that threatens to engulf its major cities. Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad are already reeling under the pressure, with residents scrambling for every precious drop. The stark reality is that by 2030, India's demand for water will outstrip its supply, leaving millions high and dry. But amidst this bleak landscape, a ray of hope has emerged in the form of Vasudha Aqua, a pioneering startup that's revolutionizing the way we think about water.The numbers are staggering. India's water crisis is estimated to cost the country over $1 trillion by 2030. The situation is exacerbated by climate change, which is altering precipitation patterns and reducing water availability. But it's not just the economy that's at risk – the very fabric of our society is threatened by this crisis. Water scarcity affects everything from food production to energy generation, and has serious implications for public health and sanitation.The Magic of Grey Water RecyclingSo, what's the secret to Vasudha Aqua's innovative solution? The answer lies in grey water- the often-overlooked resource that's generated from showers, sinks, and washing machines. Instead of letting this valuable water go down the drain, Vasudha Aqua's technology converts it into clean, non-potable water that's perfect for flushing, gardening, cooling systems, and even recharging groundwater. This game-changing approach can save thousands of litres of fresh water daily, reducing water bills and dependence on tankers. But more importantly, it's a vital step towards building a sustainable future for our cities.Rainfall may be inconsistent, but greywater remains a constant resource. While it may not rain every day, daily activities such as showering, doing laundry, and washing dishes generate a significant amount of wastewater. This greywater can be repurposed for various household chores, reducing both water bills and overall water consumption.Vasudha Aqua has developed a Grey Water System (GWS) designed to make greywater recycling efficient, hassle-free, and cost-effective. The system operates without electricity or chemicals, ensuring a safe and sustainable solution for households. With a simple installation process that takes only a few hours and causes minimal disruption, the GWS is a practical "fit-and-forget" solution.Additionally, the system eliminates concerns about leaks or clogs by utilizing gravity rather than pumps to transport greywater, ensuring reliability and long-term functionality.Vasudha Aqua's technology is surprisingly simple. The process involves treating grey water with a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes, removing impurities and contaminants. The resulting water is clean, clear, and perfect for non-potable uses. But what's truly remarkable about Vasudha Aqua's solution is its scalability. The technology can be deployed in everything from small residential complexes to large industrial facilities, making it a viable solution for water-scarce cities across India.Vasudha Aqua's innovative solution is more than just a technical fix it's a call to action that challenges us to rethink our relationship with water. As we face the daunting reality of India's water crisis, it's clear that we need a fundamental shift in our approach. We need to move beyond the conventional wisdom that views water as a scarce resource and instead, see it as a precious asset that can be harnessed and reused. As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable future, it's heartening to see pioneers like Vasudha Aqua leading the way. For more details, you can visit: https://www.vasudhaaqua.com/

12 Mar 2025

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Indore Airport Takes Flight as India’s First Zero-Waste Airport!

Indore’s Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport has soared to new heights, becoming India’s first-ever zero-waste airport. This achievement cements Indore's reputation as the cleanest city in the country and sets a shining example for sustainable aviation. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurated the 3,000-square-foot Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the airport on Sunday.The Zero-Waste MissionThe airport’s zero-waste status is built on the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Restore. The newly inaugurated MRF exemplifies this concept, designed to process approximately 750 kilograms of waste generated daily from both airport operations and flights.Key components of the waste management system include:Wet Waste Processing: Organic waste is converted into high-quality compost. This compost will be used for the airport’s landscaping, creating a greener environment and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.Dry Waste Recycling: The MRF segregates dry waste into 10 categories, maximizing resource recovery and minimizing landfill use.Previously, the airport depended on the Indore Municipal Corporation for waste disposal. The construction of the MRF has not only reduced this dependency but is expected to generate revenue from the sale of compost and recycled materials. Starting from the third year, this income will fund the salaries of green workers, ensuring the project’s financial sustainability.A Collaborative EffortThe Zero-Waste Airport Project is a collaborative initiative between IndiGo’s corporate social responsibility arm, IndiGoReach, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the AAS Foundation. The inauguration event witnessed prominent leaders, including Shri Shankar Lalwani, Member of Parliament for Indore, Shri Kailash Vijayvargiya, Minister for Madhya Pradesh Urban Development, and Shri Pushyamitra Bhargav, Mayor of Indore. A detailed tour of the MRF was conducted that highlighted the innovative waste segregation and recycling techniques in action.A critical aspect of the initiative is fostering a culture of sustainability among passengers and staff. Public awareness campaigns and rigorous waste segregation practices aim to instill responsible waste disposal habits. The project’s self-sustaining model sets it apart as an amazing example for other airports to follow.A Vision for the FutureThe union minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu also unveiled ambitious plans to expand the airport’s capacity from 40 lakh to 90 lakh passengers annually within the next three years. He emphasized the growing international connectivity of Indore Airport, with proposed routes to countries like Thailand and the United States. “For this, discussions with airlines are underway, and a longer airstrip is being planned in collaboration with the state government,” Naidu stated.Adding to the infrastructure upgrades, the minister inaugurated a new air traffic control tower, constructed at an investment of ₹55 crore, to bolster the airport’s operational efficiency.The Zero-Waste Airport Project at Indore airport significantly reduces its ecological footprint while delivering tangible benefits to the community. This transformative initiative exemplifies how a synergy between government bodies, private organizations, and local stakeholders can bring about meaningful change. This is also an inspiring precedent for airports across the nation.

26 Dec 2024

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Kerala Unveils Aksharam: India’s First Language and Culture Museum

In a world where languages are becoming more uniform and less diverse, Kerala has made a powerful statement by inaugurating Aksharam, India’s first museum dedicated to language, literature, and culture. Located in Kottayam, famously known as the "Land of Letters," this 25,000-square-foot marvel stands as a symbol of linguistic diversity and cultural pride.A Museum Like No OtherAksharam isn’t your typical museum. Unlike those focused on art or archaeology, it dives into the fascinating evolution of language and its cultural significance. The museum’s first phase features four high-tech galleries equipped with holograms and immersive theaters, making history come alive for visitors.Source: The South FirstExploring Language OriginsThe journey begins with the Origins of Language gallery, showcasing humanity’s earliest attempts at communication. From ancient cave paintings to intricate hieroglyphics, visitors can witness how primitive oral traditions evolved into complex written systems.The Richness of Indian ScriptsThe second gallery highlights the transformation of Indian scripts over centuries, emphasizing the unparalleled linguistic diversity of the nation.The Printing Revolution in MalayalamA third gallery celebrates the history of Malayalam printing, showcasing key milestones that transformed the spread of knowledge. Iconic literary works and rare artifacts take center stage, offering visitors a glimpse into Kerala’s literary golden age.A Tribute to SPCSThe fourth gallery celebrates the contributions of the Sahitya Pravarthaka Cooperative Society (SPCS), the institution behind the museum. Established in 1945, SPCS has been instrumental in shaping Kerala’s literary ecosystem.A Global Perspective on LanguageBeyond Kerala’s treasures, Aksharam’s Language Gallery broadens horizons, offering insights into over 6,000 languages spoken worldwide. Detailed charts trace the evolution of Indian scripts, highlighting the interconnected roots of linguistic traditions and fostering a deeper appreciation for human expression.Voices of Literary LegendsOne of Aksharam’s standout features is the chance to hear the voices of Kerala’s literary greats. Visitors can listen to rare recordings of authors like Karoor Neelakanta Pillai narrating their works. Future plans include recordings of celebrated writers such as Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai and Ponkunnam Varkey, adding an intimate touch to the experience.The museum’s next phase promise even more literary treasures:Malayalam Poetry Evolution: Vibrant exhibits tracing poetry’s journey from folk songs to modern sonnets.Malayalam Prose: Showcasing the roots of fictional literature, storytelling traditions, and prose forms like biographies, travelogues, and children’s literature.Scholarly Literature: Dedicated galleries on subjects like grammar, philosophy, history, and mathematics, highlighting Malayalam’s academic depth.A special gallery on translations will underline their role in expanding Malayalam literature’s global reach.Letter Tourism CircuitAksharam also offers a Letter Tourism Circuit, a curated route connecting Kottayam’s iconic literary landmarks. Stops include the CMS Press, the birthplace of Malayalam printing, and Kumaranellur Devi Temple, known for its palm-leaf manuscripts. This unique initiative blends history, spirituality, and linguistic evolution.A Call to Embrace Multilingualism“By showcasing the roots and evolution of languages, Aksharam inspires an appreciation for diversity and multilingualism,” said an SPCS official. The museum underscores the importance of preserving native languages, encouraging communities to protect their linguistic heritage for future generations.In an era of rapid change, Aksharam stands as a timeless tribute to diversity, urging us all to celebrate and preserve the beauty of linguistic heritage.

13 Dec 2024

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Following Cyclone Dana's Arrival, Odisha Chief Minister Majhi says that Mission "Zero Casualty" has been Accomplished.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) stated in its hourly bulletin that severe cyclonic storm "Dana" finished its landfall process on Friday morning, around eight and a half hours after the storm initially struck the Bengal-Odisha coast. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi praised the government's "zero casualty mission" and thanked the authorities for successfully lessening the storm's effects. According to officials in West Bengal, a thorough damage assessment has not yet been completed.Dana deteriorated and turned into a cyclonic storm on Friday morning, with its center located around 50 km north-northwest of Dhamra and 30 km northeast of Bhadrak town. The storm struck the continent with a wind speed of 110 kmph. An IMD scientist told PTI that the "Dana" landfall began at around 12.05 am on Thursday night and was finished at about 8.30 am today.According to the IMD, the cyclone is expected to gradually deteriorate into a deep depression over the course of the next six hours as it moves northwest across north Odisha. The meteorological service has emphasized that the system is constantly monitored by the Paradip Doppler weather radar. (Source: Google Images) No casualties, restoration efforts underway, and flying operations resume: What is the storm's aftermath? (Source: Google Images) The chief minister of Odisha declared on Friday that the storm had not claimed any human lives. There have been no reports of human fatalities. Thanks to everyone's participation, our zero casualty mission has been successful," he stated."By the grace of Lord Jagannath and cooperation of all," the chief minister said, thanking all the stakeholders, including ministers, MLAs, other representatives of the people, rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), Fire Service, Odisha Police, social activists, the media, and others. In the meantime, the NDRF and ODRAF troops began restoration work after many tree-cutting accidents were reported in Odisha. In the Bhadrak district's Dhamra area, the rescue crews endured strong gusts and a lot of rain. Minister of Higher Education for Odisha Suryabanshi Suraj stated: "Trees have fallen, causing significant damage to electrical installations. Roads are being made clear. Parts of Bengal, including Kolkata, have been battered by heavy rains since Thursday night. Despite the heavy downpour, Power Minister Aroop Biswas stated that a thorough damage assessment would be available by the evening, according to PTI. There have been reports of waterlogging in Gosaba in South 24 Parganas and other areas of Mandarmani in Purba Medinipur.

25 Oct 2024

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A True Soldier's Resolve: Major Sita Shelke's Heroic Leadership in Kerala

The pictures of Major Sita Ashok Shelke has been receiving a lot of attention. The seventy male members of the Bengaluru-based Madras Engineering Group of the Army were commanded by the commander officer. Her images, taken in the landslide-affected Chooralmala hamlet of Kerala's Wayanad, standing tall on the railings of the recently built Bailey Bridge, have demonstrated her bravery and dedication throughout the rescue effort. In just 31 hours, Major Shelke and her crew accomplished the amazing accomplishment of building the bridge, despite several challenges including inclement weather, uprooted trees, and a quickly moving river. Major Shelke, who is from Gadilgaon Village in Ahmed Nagar, Maharashtra, is in charge of the MEG unit, which provides support to the Army in times of conflict and natural calamities such as the 2018 Kerala floods. (Source: Google Images)Major Shelke and her group put in a lot of overtime to rescue a lot of lives and quickly retrieve the bodies of the deceased~ Thus far, landslides caused by intense rainfall in Wayanad's hilly regions have claimed the lives of 308 individuals. The lack of necessary equipment, the hazardous terrain, and the damaged roads and bridges caused almost 200 injuries. Major Sita Ashok Shelke gives credit to the entire unit for the bridge's successful completion. She stated, "I must express my gratitude to all the local authorities, state officials, and everyone who has helped us from different places," in an interview with PTI. With special appreciation to state leaders, villagers, and local residents. The prompt and effective actions of Major Shelke and her crew represent true heroism in a time of crisis ~ (Source: Google Images)I don't consider myself only as a woman; I am a soldierTheir unwavering dedication to overcoming challenging circumstances is an inspiration to people all across the world. Shelke has also demonstrated that she is a true leader in every regard. She freely acknowledged that she was not prepared to confine herself to gender norms and that she had been operating at the landslide site on the same terms as her male coworkers. "I don't consider myself only as a woman; I am a soldier," the commander said to PTI. I am extremely proud to be a member of this launch team and am here as a representative of the Indian Army.

20 Aug 2024

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Pioneering Progress: Hygenco's Landmark Green Hydrogen Initiative in India

Located in Haryana, Hygenco is a firm that aims to transform India's energy sector by building and running the nation's first green hydrogen plant in Maharashtra. Thanks to this historic project, Hygenco is now leading the way in sustainable energy solutions, which will help create a cleaner and more environmentally friendly future. Green hydrogen, created by electrolyzing renewable energy sources, becomes a key component in the fight against carbon emissions linked to conventional hydrogen production techniques. The first operational green hydrogen plant in India is set to be established in Maharashtra by Hygenco, a 2020-founded green hydrogen firm located in Haryana. The project supports the country's commitment to renewable energy and lays the groundwork for a significant transition to clean, sustainable energy sources. About Hygenco ~ The firm was founded by Amit Bansal, the CEO of Hygenco Green Energies, and is focused on building, owning, and running green hydrogen plants throughout India. Addressing India's energy issues and promoting energy independence, job development, and a sustainable future are at the core of Amit Bansal's mission. The growing energy requirements of India, along with its dependency on fossil fuels and the goal to meet net-zero emissions, highlight the vital role that green hydrogen plays. Amit Bansal highlights how green hydrogen may help decarbonize challenging industries, create jobs, save foreign exchange, and promote energy independence. Hygenco provides full techno-commercial solutions for sustainable transportation and is actively involved in developing green hydrogen facilities in Maharashtra and Haryana. The firm has signed offtake agreements for green hydrogen and green oxygen with Sterlite Technologies Ltd (STL), demonstrating its dedication to providing specialized and trustworthy green hydrogen solutions. Amit finished his postgraduate studies in business administration at the Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management, IIT-Bombay, in 2010, having pursued engineering in 2005. He began his professional life as a co-founder of Vivaan Solar, a renowned solar plant installation business that provides turnkey solar power plants all across the nation. Amit aspired to alleviate India's energy challenges while employed in the renewable energy industry. Why India Needs Green Hydrogen ~ According to Amit Bansal, India's rapid economic growth is causing a rise in the country's consumption of fossil fuels. He states that there is a very strong business sense for harnessing the power of green hydrogen since the country is significantly dependent on imports for its energy needs. Reducing the import of fossil fuels will save valuable foreign exchange that may be used for social purposes like education and health. Furthermore, from being a major importer of fossil fuels, the nation can even aim to become a net exporter of ammonia and its derivatives," he continues. Furthermore, according to Amit, "Hard-to-abate sectors can decarbonize with the help of green hydrogen and its derivatives as fuel, particularly since these sectors account for nearly 80% of the carbon footprint." This will be important since replacing all conventional power with 100% green electricity would only lead to 20% decarbonization. To capitalize on the rising demand for green hydrogen, in 2020, Amit founded Hygenco intending to secure a sustainable future for future generations and assist India in becoming energy-independent, particularly in light of the growing number of climate-related issues Impact and Future Plans ~ Hygenco's launch of India's first green hydrogen plant is a critical turning point in the country's pursuit of sustainable energy. Hygenco's goal is to create 10 GW of economically viable production and distribution assets by 2030. The company sees a day when green hydrogen replaces conventional fuels as a common energy source. In conclusion, India's energy landscape is about to enter a new age thanks to Hydrogenco's innovative efforts in building the nation's first green hydrogen plant. The firm is positioned to play a significant role in India's transition to a low-carbon and ecologically conscious energy ecosystem because of its dedication to sustainability and strategic partnerships.

21 Feb 2024

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Changing How We Handle Nuclear Waste: Know About Hanford's High-Tech Solution to Nuclear Waste Crisis

One of the world's largest nuclear waste treatment facilities is set to commence operations, aiming to convert liquid and solid waste from unused nuclear weapons into large bricks of non-radioactive glass. The Hanford nuclear cleanup site in Washington state, constructed by Bechtel National for the Department of Energy, utilizes a high-temperature process to merge nuclear waste with traditional glass-forming materials, ensuring safe underground storage. The project addresses a long-standing concern about the environmental and human health risks associated with the plutonium produced during the Cold War era for nuclear warheads. Over the course of the arms race, a staggering 56 million gallons of radioactive plutonium and other materials were generated, presenting a considerable challenge for the Department of Energy in terms of disposal. By subjecting the waste to temperatures of 2,100 degrees Fahrenheit at the Hanford site, it is mixed with molten glass material before being poured into stainless steel canisters, where it solidifies and becomes stable for storage. The recent successful test run produced 30,000 pounds of vitrified glass, marking a significant step forward for the multi-billion dollar facility. With the production of the first container of glass, the Hanford environmental cleanup mission enters a new phase of risk reduction, moving closer to the immobilization of tank waste. The facility aims to address the environmental harm caused by leaks from over 20 of the 100 tanks storing liquid and solid radioactive plutonium waste at the Hanford site. The first 300-ton melter is projected to be operational in the coming year. This innovative approach offers hope for resolving the challenges associated with nuclear waste and paves the way for safer and more sustainable waste management practices.

26 Dec 2023

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An Operation in Pune by The Red Dot Campaign

Eco India: In partnership with Rotary Pune and the Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat (KKPKP), Solid Waste Collection and Handling, a wholly-owned cooperative of independent waste workers based in Pune, launched the "Red Dot campaign" to assist waste pickers in avoiding health risks associated with improperly handling sanitary waste. Through this campaign, SWaCH is fundamentally managing sanitary waste and will keep putting pressure on the relevant parties to implement appropriate sanitary disposal systems. In Pune, SWaCH collects 650 tonnes of waste every day, of which 3–5% includes sanitary waste (pads and diapers), according to a research the organization conducted. The garbage pickers become seriously exposed to work hazards when they have to separate 20 tons (or around 20,000 kg) of sanitary waste per day. The campaign's aim is straightforward: Trash managers advise homes to separate their sanitary waste and label their paper bags or packets with a noticeable red dot to indicate that this type of garbage needs to be handled differently. Next, the garbage is delivered to a waste-to-energy facility. More Awareness Among Middle Class Strata of Society : Pune: Despite three years of increased public awareness, upper-class individuals continue to neglect the Red Dot Campaign for sanitary napkin disposal. The people who really adhere to it are those who reside in communities where middle-class residents predominate. Consciousness grew: The director of SWaCH, Aparna Susarla, disclosed that in 2017, they had two or three phone calls inquiring about this campaign; today, they received twenty-five. She added, "The sales of bags have also increased." The bags cost Rs 60 for a pack of 30, and they already have a red dot on them. Due to the fact that SWaCH waste pickers are being trained to perform intensive door-to-door outreach on the subject, residents who do not support the Red Dot program may soon receive a knock on their door! The campaign is being held in tandem with a one-year training program designed to increase the advocacy skills and sanitation knowledge of SWaCH personnel.

29 Oct 2023

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The Science Teacher Who Converts Complex Lessons into Catchy Movie Songs!

Mythili, a science teacher in a government school in Pudukkottai district in Tamil Nadu, is making waves with her innovative teaching methods. With her passion for science and music, she transforms complex scientific theories into catchy movie songs, turning her classroom into a lively music class. Her aim is to make her students ambitious and world-renowned scientists, and she goes the extra mile to ignite their interest in science. She uses various strategies, including ARloopa, FXguru, and other science-related materials as teaching aids. With her innovative teaching ideas, Mythili has equipped her students to attend various competitions and win awards. Mythili's commitment to her students came about after she realized that many of them struggled academically as a result of their parents' neglect. Instilling fundamental education with discipline, she opted for practical teaching techniques above book reading. Her students started cooperating with her after two years of strenuous effort. Her efforts have paid off, and she has received numerous awards, including the Inspire Awards, Innovative Teacher Award, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Award, Innovative Woman Achiever Award, and Best Exhibitor Award. Mythili's dedication has inspired her students, many of whom have excelled in science competitions and received scholarships. She has even coached them to participate in the Guinness World Record event, conducted by the India International Science Festival. Her students testify to the impact she has had on their lives, with many crediting her for their interest in science and the prizes they have won. With her innovative teaching methods and dedication to her students, Mythili is sowing the seeds for a future generation of scientists.

8 Mar 2023

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This Path Breaking Project in Hyderabad Is Recognized As India’s Most Innovative Environmental Project

Landfills are always an eyesore and something good coming out of it is unimaginable. However, India's largest Landfill Gas to Compressed Biogas Plant has come up at Hyderabad Integrated Municipal Solid Waste (HiMSW) site and this is a remarkable achievement, unprecedented in the world. This large-scale Landfill Gas to CBG project, which is the first of its kind, has been recognized as the most innovative environmental project. This ground-breaking project will accelerate not only India's sustainable waste management journey but also the greening of the Indian automotive sector. One of the largest municipal trash landfills in India was successfully converted into a significant source of sustainable energy and eco-friendly vehicle fuel, which is a remarkable example of circular economy innovation at scale. The project was undertaken under the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme launched by the Government of India in 2018.The compressed biogas is sold to Bhagyanagar Gas Limited through its retail locations in Hyderabad.

17 Nov 2022

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This Revolutionary Device Keeps Fishermen Safe and Guides Them Towards Their Catch

Fishermen can soon use technology to their advantage as GEMINI(Gagan Enabled Mariners Instrument for Navigation and Information) was launched in Mumbai by the Hyderabad based Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services(INCOIS) along with the Airports Authority of India. The device will facilitate safer and easier expeditions for the fishermen. The fishermen will have to download the Gagan app on their mobile phones and it will be connected to GEMINI via Bluetooth. Its inbuilt rechargeable battery lasts for 3-4 days and it covers the entire Indian Ocean for transmission to fishermen at sea. Revolutionary Device GEMINI provides information to fishermen on potential fishing zones and gives alerts on high waves and strong winds. It gives warning about cyclones and tsunamis as well as provides information on search and rescue. Fishermen can also know the maximum current speed, depth of the sea, distance and direction with the help of the device. In case of any emergency, fishermen can bank on GEMINI as it suggests the nearest land points. Technology GEMINI uses surface temperature and water’s chlorophyll content to locate fish schools. It detects weather conditions and sends the information to the app. Fishermen can use their phones to see the forecast of fishing zones which is sent three days in advance. They can also see the weather alerts that are sent in an hour. The Ockhi cyclone of 2017 brought to fore the limitations of the marine information systems as fishermen in deep-sea couldn’t be reached and therefore, they weren’t warned about the cyclone. The low cost, soapbox sized smart receiver device GEMINI will ensure safe expeditions for our fisherfolk.

18 Nov 2019

Good News

The Upcoming Garbage Cafe in Chhattisgarh Will Benefit Ragpickers

Waste management is essential to keep the environment healthy and ragpickers work hard every day to keep our surroundings spick and span. But is the community getting what they deserve? Are we acknowledging their work? Well! There are people who think of them. Recently a 14-year-old girl, Sanjana Runwal donated raincoats and gumboots to 200 ragpickers in Mumbai. And now another news has made us elated. A Cafe With a Great Approach The very first garbage café of India will soon be launched in Chhattisgarh and we are grateful to Ambikapur Municipal Corporation for making this happen. Ragpickers and underprivileged people are going to benefit a lot from this café. They will be provided with a free meal if they hand over 1 kg of plastic waste and breakfast will be given to those who will give away 500 grams of plastic waste. While talking to ANI, the Mayor of Ambikapur, Ajay Tirkey said: "Our door-to-door waste collection process is already in place. We also re-sell plastic. The initiative will become successful. In the budget, we have allocated Rs 6 lakh for the café.” The garbage café will not only benefit the underprivileged people and ragpickers but, will also help in keeping the city cleaner. Our country can be free of waste if such initiatives are taken in every city.

25 Jul 2019

Good News

IIT Madras Students Make Waste Management Easy

You and I can lead a much healthy life if each one of us starts managing our waste. The environment can benefit from it too, isn’t it? But, did you know of any machine that can segregate waste on its own? Nine students from IIT Madras developed a smart bin, Automatic Waste Segregator which has four sections for the different types of waste. It also has motor and sensors which help identify the waste and push it in one of the sections. While talking to TOI about its development, Pranjal Mehta who looked after the business part along with Hari Ramachandran said: “We have used hydrophobic coating on the robotic arms that pushes the waste into the bin, without which there are chances of liquid waste sticking onto it. We have placed sensors like capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, inductive proximity sensor and ultrasonic sensors, and there is a camera, too, on top of it.” The technology aspect of the machine was taken care of by the other seven students, Varun Sundar, Arvind Pujari, Rohith Srinivaas, Vishnu Harshit, Iniyan Ram, Tanay Garg, and Sai Venkat. TOI also reported that the students behind this project will share their ideas regarding it at both national and international levels at Hult Prize by The Bill Clinton Foundation. It just takes 10 seconds for the smart bin to identify the waste and drop it in its section. A total of RS 40,000 has been spent to manufacture it and project has already been run as a pilot in Kalakshetra Colony. Did you ever think that something like this would be created? Thanks to the minds behind this development for making waste management easy.

9 Jul 2019

Good News

Do You Think Disaster Management Should be Included in Academics...

Soon disaster management will be taught in colleges across the country as the University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked varsities throughout the country to include and implement the subject on disaster management. A circular was issued on Wednesday in this regard. UGC secretary P K Thakur said that the disaster management course should include awareness about dealing with bomb threats, earthquakes, a health emergency among others. On account of its geo-climatic conditions, India is prone to various natural disasters. About 58.6% of its landmass is susceptible to earthquakes and over 40 million hectares (8%) is prone to floods. 8000 kilometres of coastline is prone to cyclones and 68% of the country's geographical area is susceptible to drought. Disaster management (DM) is a continuous and integrated process of planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing measures to reduce or negate the impacts of a disaster. It is aimed at developing a culture of preparedness and safety besides implementing school DM plans. Students will be prepared to take proper action in the event of an unfortunate or perilous situation. Sattapa Mohite, an education activist from Maharashtra welcomed the UGC's suggestion and said that disaster management awareness was the need of the hour, especially in light of the recent stampede at the footbridge of a railway station in Mumbai.

5 Oct 2017

Good News

Indian philosophy now a part of commerce at Rajasthan University

To educate students by giving them a sense of Indian philosophy and religion, now Rajasthan University’s Commerce Department has replaced their dissertation topics with Indian values. Now topics like Vedas and management, management of stress through yoga, Mahabharata, Lord Krishna, Mahatma Gandhi, Lord Mahavir are few topics among other that will be included in University’s dissertation topic. It will be a modern day collaboration with the ancient topics that will make sure that students realise and understand the contribution done by philosophers and thinkers in India. Students will also give presentations on these topics and other presentation topics include under the category of Management Guru. This unique move has been taken by Rajasthan University to Indianise the higher studies and students to get a sense of Indian values while they study modern day management. Most of the theories accepted globally are taken from Indian philosopher who dates back to 5000 years old. Therefore Indian students should also know about this contribution. Apart from this, University had previously also replaced Foreign authors with Indian Authors so that students can study by taking the reference of Indian author’s book.

17 Mar 2017

Good News

Global News

Robots to the Rescue: The Future of E-Waste Recycling Begins Here

An ex-entrepreneur in tech hardware has redirected his skills to address the issue of waste from electronic devices. In order to carefully disassemble things and separate still-usable components for reuse rather than recycling, his business builds and programs precision robots. His name is Rob Lawson-Shanks, and he recently received funding from some of the most well-known names in stakeholder venture capital. In addition to assisting recycling facilities in disassembling electronics that would otherwise be thrown away, he is collaborating with Dell and other companies to create new gadgets that his robots can more easily unmake.(Source: Google Images) His company, Molg, builds and trains robots that can remove panels, unscrew screws, and extract chips on their own by using numerous arms and cameras with remarkable precision. In order to retest, re-qualify, and redeploy, Lawson-Shanks explains, "We use really high-precision, non-destructive [equipment] and really care about what we're touching and then moving." "The ultimate goal is to maintain things at the highest possible value." (Source: Google Images) The compact devices, which measure 3 feet by 10 feet in height, are made to be able to be installed inside of already-existing e-waste processing facilities. Some devices can be disassembled in as little as five minutes. The machines are now quite good at disassembling obsolete servers and recovering parts to create new data center units. Before being utilized in a mid-tier market product, the components inside each disassembled item are recorded and databased by a Molg "micro-factory," as they are known. The same parts can be utilized to create a more basic electrical product once that item is broken down, and even after its material structure decomposes and is recycled.Molg has introduced a completely new line of snaps, press-fits, latches, and other modular connections in collaboration with businesses such as Dell. These connections can be used to secure laptops and other devices together, but its microfactories can readily disengage, remove, or unsnap them. Why Zero Waste? (Source: Google Images) Reduces pollution and conserves resources~The way we now consume is not sustainable. Whether it is cutting a forest, mining for minerals, or drilling for oil, the extraction of raw materials from natural areas is energy-intensive and polluting. These materials are more polluting and require significantly more energy for processing. After being utilized, the products are either burned in an incinerator or thrown in a landfill. A zero-waste strategy, on the other hand, minimizes pollution from extraction, manufacture, and disposal while conserving natural resources. Because fewer people purchase goods and because they are made to last, fewer products are produced when people reduce and reuse. Recycling helps manufacturers use recycled materials rather than raw resources to create new products and keeps garbage out of landfills and incinerators.

18 Oct 2024

Global News

Everest’s Cleanup Challenge: What’s the Buzz in the Skies?

The task of removing rubbish from the world's highest mountain is intricate and multifarious, but the drones, operated by the same Sherpa porters who have been removing trash on foot for decades, will enable them to work in the riskiest locations without endangering their lives.The Cleanse For Its Revival ~ China's leading drone manufacturer, Da Jiang Innovations, will supply equipment to a drone operator that has partnered with the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) and the local municipality of the Everest region. These drones will be used to help clean the sacred mountain. (Source: Google Images) “After a successful test in April, we plan to use drones commercially in the Everest region,” said Jagat Bhusal, chief administration officer of the rural municipality Khumbu Pasang Lhamu.Alarming Amount of Waste Generation Needs Your Attention~The SPCC strives to guarantee that as much waste and corpse pollution is eliminated from the slopes each year. A $4,000 deposit is required to assure compliance, and climbers who intend to reach Everest Base Camp must return with 8 kilos (17.2 pounds) of trash, in addition to using Sherpas to remove trash from higher elevations and deploying helicopters to retrieve bodies. To avoid being overburdened in the low oxygen, climbers who go to Camp I or Camp II further up the slopes must return with progressively smaller weights of rubbish. Nepali People Is On The Loose To Pick The Useless Racks ( Source: Google Images) Mr. Sangam Prasain of the Kathmandu Post reports on the dangers of crossing the Khumbu Icefall on the first ascent from Everest Base Camp to Camp I. The 0.6-mile-long river of ice on Everest is one of its most dangerous features; when exposed to sunlight, it melts, moves, and becomes unstable, creating crevasses and avalanches. According to statistics provided by Prasain, around fifty Sherpa porters lost their lives while attempting to traverse the Khumbu Icefall between 1953 and 2023. This is typically done in the early morning or late evening after the ice has thawed.The heavy lift drones demonstrated a load capability of 30 kilograms, or more than 60 pounds, at Camp I, according to trial data. However, as the altitude was increased, this capacity decreased to barely 18 kg at Camp II, which is situated at 6,400 meters above sea level. Garbage and bodies from decades ago are exposed as warmer summers melt Everest's snow and ice, endangering the purity of the meltwater that nourishes streams and rivers throughout the mountain's surrounding valleys. Recognizing this, the SPCC is working hard to try and remove these potential contaminants from one of Buddhism's holiest mountains!

16 Aug 2024

Global News

Scientists Discover a Novel Method To Recover Gold From Smartphones, Computers and Other Electronic Waste!

In an age where e-waste is growing as fast as our dependence on technology, a timely discovery emerges from the laboratories of ETH Zurich in Switzerland. Scientists have found a way to extract gold from the discarded circuits of our digital lives using only a by-product of cheese production - a favorite additive of bodybuilders: whey. This remarkable method not only promises a more sustainable future for e-waste recycling but also redefines the ancient alchemy of turning waste into precious metal. Understanding the impact of e-waste ~ E-waste contains hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and many other toxic substances. If these substances are not properly treated, they can pollute soil, water, and air and pose a serious threat to human health and ecosystems. Sustainable electronic waste management ensures proper handling, recycling, and disposal of electronic components. Failure to do so poses a serious threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Modern Alchemy and the Golden Sponge ~ At the heart of this process is a simple but very effective material: a protein fibril sponge made of 'whey'. Professor Raffaele Mezzenga and his team from ETH Zurich's Department of Health Sciences and Technology say that converting this e-waste into a valuable metal is very efficient, cost-effective, and last but not least ~ environmentally friendly. This is in contrast to traditional e-waste recycling, which consumes a lot of energy and often uses highly toxic chemicals to extract precious metals. Protein fibril sponges are made by denaturing whey proteins under certain conditions to form a gel of protein nanofibrils. After drying, this gel becomes a sponge capable of selectively adsorbing gold ions from a solution of dissolved electronic components. The beauty of this method is its selectivity; While other metals can adhere to the sponge, gold does so more efficiently, making the recovery process both precise and efficient. By absorbing the gold ions, the researchers apply heat to the sponge and start a reduction process that turns those ions into gold. metal flakes. Those flakes are then melted into a gold nugget. Remarkably, the team successfully created a 450-milligram 22-carat gold nugget from components of 20 old computer motherboards, proving the efficiency and scalability of the method. Current treatment methods: 3 pillars of Sustainable E-Waste Management ~ 1. Reduce The most effective way to deal with e-waste is to minimize its generation. Encouraging consumers to buy less, use a longer-term mindset, and promote durable and repairable electronics can significantly reduce electronic waste. In addition, manufacturers should focus on ecological design and develop products that are easier to disassemble, repair, and upgrade, thereby extending their service life. 2. Reuse Extending the life of electronic devices through reuse is a sustainable approach. Companies can create programs to recycle and recycle electronics, making them available to individuals or organizations in need. Donating or selling used equipment, ensuring proper operation and erasing data, promotes waste reduction, and facilitates access to technology for those who might not be able to afford it. 3. Recycling Recycling is an important part of sustainable e-waste management. Creating efficient recycling systems helps collect valuable materials from end-of-life equipment and minimizes the environmental impact of raw materials. Cooperation with certified e-waste recyclers ensures the safe and responsible use of electronics following strict environmental and information security standards. Toward a Greener Future ~ According to the World Health Organization, e-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream on the planet. In 2019 alone, a whopping 53.6 million tons of e-waste were produced worldwide, of which only a paltry 17.4% was collected and recycled. E-waste contains a cocktail of hazardous substances, including lead, mercury, and flame retardants. When these toxins are dumped in landfills or burned, they can leach into soil and water, polluting the environment and endangering human health. The impact of this new technology extends far beyond the confines of the laboratory. By offering a method that uses recycled materials and requires significantly less energy and financial investment, this new type of recycling paves the way for more sustainable practices in the gold recovery industry. In addition, it not only deals with e-waste but also gives new life to the by-products of the food industry. "What I like the most is that we use a by-product of the food industry to get gold from e-waste," Mezzenga said in a press release. Sustainable e-waste management is important to save the environment and ensure a healthier future. By reducing, reusing, and recycling electronic devices and components, we can minimize the harmful effects of electronic waste. Through cooperation, education, technological development, and global cooperation, companies can reduce emissions and conserve natural resources. The group's future objective is to develop and get the technology ready for market use. While there are other possible sources, the most promising starting product from which they want to extract gold is electronic trash. These are made of industrial waste from processes like producing microchips or gold plating. In addition, researchers plan to investigate the potential for creating protein fibril sponges from other food industry waste materials or byproducts that are rich in protein. This innovation has the potential to drastically alter the way computer garbage—at least waste with significant gold content—is handled. E-waste is rapidly emerging as one of the world's largest unexplored revenue-generating sectors. E-waste entrepreneurs are already generating $85,000 a day by recycling copper and gold from electronic garbage. Over the next two decades, this business will grow significantly, and recyclers will need more effective methods for handling electronic trash. Mezzanga gives them exactly that with their sponge technology.

7 Mar 2024

Global News

Google's New AI Model Gemini Surpasses ChatGPT in Most Tests

Google has introduced Gemini, a groundbreaking artificial intelligence model that claims superiority over ChatGPT in numerous tests, showcasing advanced reasoning skills. This revolutionary model was unveiled recently post the global AI safety summit. Consisting of three versions, Gemini's prowess lies in its "multimodal" capabilities, enabling seamless comprehension across text, audio, images, video, and computer code simultaneously. Google’s Gemini surpasses existing AI models, notably outperforming GPT-4 in 30 out of 32 benchmark tests, including reasoning and image understanding, and GPT-3.5 in six out of eight trials. The Bard upgrade will be integrated into Google’s products, such as the Bard Chatbot. However, it faces regulatory hurdles in the UK and Europe, necessitating clearance before its release. . DeepMind's CEO, Demis Hassabis, describes Gemini as their most intricate and ambitious project. Gemini's smaller versions, Pro and Nano, are set for release alongside Ultra, the most powerful iteration, which will undergo extensive external testing and red team assessments for safety and security, aligning with Joe Biden’s executive order. However, challenges persist, notably in combating "hallucinations," or false answers. This has prompted ongoing research efforts signaling Google's commitment to ensuring the model's reliability and safety, setting a precedent for responsible AI advancement.

7 Dec 2023

Global News

The Whys and Hows

Eco-Friendly and Fabulous: The Benefits of Upcycling Your Waste

Upcycling is the new wave of waste management, and yes anyone can do it easily. We now have to use the sources and products creatively and cautiously due to the growing rates of pollution, climate change, and environmental degradation. As they say, "One man's trash is another man's treasure." Upcycling is one of the innovative concepts; it involves transforming waste materials, byproducts, or abandoned objects into something appealing, useful, and valuable. It's like using your imagination and inventiveness to give worthless stuff a new significance! All of this is possible because science exists to protect Mother Earth! An Additional Emphasis on the Word "Upcycling" ~ It is the process of giving anything that is no longer in use a new purpose and a second life. By doing this, the final result frequently improves from its original state in terms of usefulness, value, and beauty. Recycling and upcycling are not the same thing. Recycling is the process of taking used materials, mostly plastic, paper, metal, and glass, and breaking them down so that their basic components can be used to create new, frequently lower-quality consumer goods. On the other hand, you don't break down the materials when you upcycle something. You might be reshaping it. It's made of the same materials as when you started, just like when you cut a T-shirt into yarn strips. Furthermore, the repurposed object is usually of an equivalent or higher quality than the original. Since upcycling repurposes resources rather than discarding them, it is significant. Naturally, less landfill waste is better for the environment. The way we do things has social and community benefits in addition to environmental ones. Did you know that just 9% of material is recycled, even in cases when waste is segregated? Upcycling gives items like worn-out jeans, tire tubes that are no longer in use, sarees that need to be thrown away, and empty wine bottles from a pleasant get-together a new lease of life. When a product is made using reused materials, sometimes referred to as "waste," the amount of virgin resources required is significantly reduced, ensuring that upcycling minimizes the usage of fresh resources. Resource depletion is outpacing the planet's ability to replenish itself, as we now understand. Thus, instead of throwing away the resources we have already added to our consumption cycle, why not consider prolonging their useful life through reuse? Consider how we might lessen our consumption of unused materials and still have a positive influence on Environment Day. (Source: Google Images) Enhances Livelihoods: Upcycling is a labor-intensive process that necessitates meticulous attention to detail at every stage. Unlike standard off-the-shelf products, these can never be mass-produced with machinery or other equipment. Throughout the whole supply chain, from the point of material collection to the point of sending the completed product to you, there is an army of people working for you. When you choose to buy recycled goods, you are choosing to support this team. A moral decision that will have a significant impact on sustainable consumption. (Source: Google Images) Fascinating 5 Ways To Think Greener Via Means Of Upcycling ~ 01. Turn Candy Wrappers Into Coin Purse Why waste candy wrappers when you can transform it into a beautiful purse to keep your coins, pens, or even extra candy there. Gather essential materials such as wrappers (prefer big size), a sewing Machine and thread, and Scissors. 1.Cut the wrappers into the parts for coin holder 2.Sew around all of the sides except the top 3. Finally, turn the whole thing inside out and your coin holder is ready. 02. Flip Old Coffee Cans Into House Planters Are you feeling bad about throwing those cute coffee cans? Well, don’t worry! You can keep them in your house or office or anywhere just by Upcycling them into planters. Just clean it and paint it in your favorite color and your planter is ready. 03. Transform Empty Milk Jugs Into Perfectly Practical Drip Watering Cans If you have a great hobby for gardening and looking for budget-friendly watering cans, then you can go for milk jugs. All you need is ● An empty plastic milk jug ● A nail or a small drill ● A hammer ● Water Steps ~ 1. Thoroughly clean the jug 2. Using a nail or small drill, create holes in the lid of the jug. 3. Now, fill the jug with water. 4. Finally, your jug watering can is ready to use. This method is in use mostly for watering young and gentle plants. 04. Turn Plastic Waste Into Beautiful Plarn Products If you are fond of knitting and crocheting, then you should try your hand at Plarn. Plarn is “plastic yarn”. It is made by cutting plastic bags into strips and stringing them together in a long single strand. Varieties of products you can make out of it such as Plarn Grocery Tote, Box Bottom Tote, Large Durable Plarn Tote, Upcycled Crochet Backpack, etc. 05. Use Wine Bottles as Centerpieces You don’t want to toss out used wine bottles. Don’t worry! Here is the idea. Use it as a centerpiece. All you need is spray paint. Put your favorite flower inside it. And it’s ready! By buying items that have been reimagined, you are encouraging the craft and labor of love that these craftsmen invest in creating items that are upcycled just for you. One of the main advantages of upcycling is this. It is our duty as humans to contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and greener future. And one excellent way to accomplish this is through upcycling. When you put your imagination and creativity to use, you can truly turn garbage into treasure.

5 Jun 2024

The Whys and Hows

Why Does Waste Segregation Count?

In a world grappling with the mounting challenge of waste management, scientists continue to sound the alarm on the ever-increasing volume of garbage generated, emphasizing the urgent need for effective waste management practices. Diverse in composition and characteristics, different types of waste necessitate tailored approaches for their proper disposal and recycling. Therefore, reaching overall waste management objectives requires an awareness of waste segregation and knowing how to segregate garbage. Waste has to be categorized to be separated into distinct groups. Appropriate waste segregation requires accurate waste type identification. Waste Classification Is The Unlocking Key For Number Of Solutions ~ Sorting and segregating waste are two different processes. Waste segregation refers to the classification of waste into different categories. Waste is placed in its category at the point of dumping or collection. Based on their biological, physical, and chemical properties, wastes are classified into several categories: Wet Waste: Refers to biodegradable organic waste. Food items, soiled food wrappers, hygiene products, yard waste, paper towels, etc. Dry Waste: Refers to non-biodegradable waste that includes recyclable and non-recyclable materials. Paper, clothing, plastic, wood, glass, etc. Sanitary Waste: Refers to a type of hygiene waste. Used diapers, sanitary towels or napkins, tampons, condoms, incontinence sheets, and any other similar waste. E-Waste: Refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices. Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, etc. Hazardous Waste: Refers to items that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive components. Inert Waste: Refers to wastes that are unreactive biologically and chemically. (Source: Google Images) Waste recovery, recycling, and reuse are made easier by waste segmentation. Waste segregation can enhance the recycling procedure. One easy technique to assist recycling organizations is to separate debris into dry and moist categories. Recycling non-biodegradable garbage and directly treating biodegradable waste will both benefit from this. As a result, less pollution will be released into the ecosystem overall since only biodegradable garbage will be dumped there. Waste segregation encourages resource efficiency and safeguards it for the next generations. However, that is not the only reason waste segregation is important. Reduced landfill trash is a result of waste separation. Because of the rising population and their changing consumption habits, landfills are becoming an increasingly serious issue. Waste segregation is the best method to reduce the harm that landfills do to the environment and the health risks that might arise from toxic waste materials being disposed of inappropriately. Waste may become mixed up at the landfill if it is not separated before disposal. What would happen if carbon dioxide or methane were present in the waste? Given that both are greenhouse gasses that contribute to global warming, it may have major consequences. A Stairway To Public Health ~ If garbage is disposed of without being separated, potentially dangerous substances may seep into the ground. Over time, this may negatively impact human health and degrade soil fertility. There are a lot more benefits to trash segregation than that! Public health also depends on waste segregation, particularly when it comes to separating hazardous and non-hazardous trash. When garbage is disposed of without being separated, health issues may occur. Non-biodegradable and hazardous trash can lead to a variety of ailments, including growth problems, skin irritations, and more. The health of the employees who handle waste directly is likewise safeguarded by waste segregation. Economical and Ecologically Sustainable ~ The necessity of waste management plans for construction enterprises is growing. The primary motivation for separating construction trash is financial. An average construction company produces one hundred metric tons of garbage annually. Most of this garbage is dumped in landfills, which are expensive for companies. Segregated construction trash allows for more effective recycling. Additionally, when garbage is transferred to landfills less frequently, profit margins per project rise. Plans for managing trash are made in the office, but they still need to be carried out on the job site. Less garbage ends up in landfills if staff members are instructed and trained in following waste segregation requirements. Larger profit margins, reduced waste levels, and cheaper disposal costs will all be advantageous to any project. Waste segregation is an essential element of healthcare waste management techniques. Separating waste at the source lowers the risk of illness and lowers disposal expenses. Hazardous waste must be kept separate at the source to be managed responsibly and sustainably without endangering the health of patients or healthcare personnel. Waste has to be gathered in containers that are suitable, labeled, and colored based on the kind of waste produced. (Source: Google Images) Facilitating The 3 R's Reuse, Recycle, and Reduce ~ The three R's – reduce, reuse, and recycle – all help to cut down on the amount of waste we throw away. They conserve natural resources, landfill space, and energy. Plus, the three R's save land and money. Siting a new landfill has become difficult and more expensive due to environmental regulations and public opposition. If the waste is already segregated then it becomes easy to choose any of the further ways to manage the resultant waste. REDUCE: The best way to manage waste is to not produce it. This can be done by shopping carefully and being aware of a few guidelines: Buy products in bulk. Larger, economy-size products or ones in concentrated form use less packaging and usually cost less per ounce. Avoid over-packaged goods, especially ones packed with several materials such as foil, paper, and plastic. They are difficult to recycle, plus you pay more for the package. Avoid disposable goods, such as paper plates, cups, napkins, razors, and lighters. Throwaways contribute to the problem and cost more because they must be replaced again and again. Buy durable goods – ones that are well-built or that carry good warranties. They will last longer, save money in the long run, and save landfill space. At work, make two-sided copies whenever possible. Maintain central files rather than using several files for individuals. Use electronic mail or main bulletin board. Use cloth napkins instead of paper napkins. Use a dishcloth instead of paper towels. REUSE: It makes economic and environmental sense to reuse products. Sometimes it takes creativity: Reuse products for the same purpose. Save paper and plastic bags, and repair broken appliances, furniture, and toys. Reuse products in different ways. Use a coffee can to pack a lunch; use plastic microwave dinner trays as picnic dishes. Sell old clothes, appliances, toys, and furniture in garage sales or ads, or donate them to charities. Use resealable containers rather than plastic wrap. Use a ceramic coffee mug instead of paper cups. Reuse grocery bags or bring your cloth bags to the store. Do not take a bag from the store unless you need one. RECYCLE: Recycling is a series of steps that takes a used material and processes, remanufactures, and sells it as a new product. Begin recycling at home and work: Buy products made from recycled material. Look for the recycling symbol or ask store managers or salesmen. The recycling symbol means one of two things – either the product is made of recycled material, or the item can be recycled. For instance, many plastic containers have a recycling symbol with a numbered code that identifies what type of plastic resin it is made from. However, just because the container has this code does not mean it can be easily recycled locally. Check collection centers and curbside pickup services to see what they accept, and begin collecting those materials. These can include metal cans, newspapers, paper products, glass, plastics, and oil. Consider purchasing recycled materials at work when purchasing materials for office supplies, office equipment, or manufacturing. Speak to store managers and ask for products and packaging that help cut down on waste, such as recycled products and products that are not over-packaged. Buy products made from material that is collected for recycling in your community. Use recycled paper for letterhead, copier paper, and newsletters.

26 Mar 2024

The Whys and Hows

Fruit Peel can be used to turn old batteries Into New

Scientists at the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have come up with a waste-to-resource approach that includes fruit peel waste to turn old batteries into new ones. The concept was demonstrated using orange peel, which recovered precious metals from battery waste efficiently. These recovered metals were then used to make functional batteries. The advantages of waste management for the environment and business modules are becoming ever more well-known. However, what does waste management hold in store? Momentarily, tons of rubbish are produced, and the world still doesn't completely know how to effectively handle this enormous quantity of waste. Everyone can agree that the labor-intensive, hand-picked rubbish collection methods are ineffective. Appropriate waste management encompasses all trash-related activities from origin to ultimate disposal and is one of the major services provided by municipalities or numerous businesses dealing with waste and upholding a circular economy to promote the health and happiness of inhabitants. The rise in hazardous waste, which requires careful handling to avoid potential hazards, is one of the primary reasons why we want effective waste management. This is but one of the most important details. An estimated 1.3 billion tonnes of food waste and 50 million tonnes of e-waste are generated globally. This new approach tackles both food waste and electronics waste, supporting a circular economy with zero waste. Professor Madhavi Srinivasan, co-director of the NTU Singapore-CEA Alliance for Research in Circular Economy (NTU SCARCE) lab, said: “Current industrial recycling processes of e-waste are energy-intensive and emit harmful pollutants and liquid waste, pointing to an urgent need for eco-friendly methods as the amount of e-waste grows. Our team has demonstrated that it is possible to do so with biodegradable substances.” “These findings build on our existing body of work at SCARCE under NTU’s Energy Research Institute (ERI@N). The SCARCE lab was set up to develop greener ways of recycling e-waste. It is also part of the NTU Smart Campus initiative, which aims to develop technologically advanced solutions for a sustainable future.” Spent batteries are conventionally treated with extreme heat (over 500°C or 930°F) to smelt valuable metals, which emit hazardous toxic gases. Alternative approaches that use strong acid solutions or weaker acid solutions with hydrogen peroxide to extract the metals are being explored, but they still produce secondary pollutants that pose health and safety risks or rely on hydrogen peroxide which is hazardous and unstable. Assistant Professor Dalton Tay of the NTU School of Materials Science and Engineering and School of Biological Sciences said: “In Singapore, a resource-scarce country, this process of urban mining to extract valuable metals from all kinds of discarded electronics becomes very important. With this method, we not only tackle the problem of resource depletion by keeping these precious metals in use as much as possible but also the problem of e-waste and food waste accumulation – both a growing global crisis.” Scientists first oven-dried the orange peel and ground it into powder. They added citric acid to the powder. The cellulose found in orange peel was converted into sugars under heat during the extraction process. These sugars enhance the recovery of metals from battery waste. Naturally occurring antioxidants found in orange peel, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, could have contributed to this enhancement as well. Scientists observed that the concept extracted around 90 percent of cobalt, lithium, nickel, and manganese from spent lithium-ion batteries during the lab experiment. Scientists then assembled new lithium-ion batteries from the recovered material—these batteries showed a similar charge capacity to commercial ones. Further research is underway to optimize the charge-discharge cycling performance of these new batteries made from recovered materials. Scientists are also looking to improve further the performance of their batteries generated from treated battery waste. Prof Madhavi, who is also from NTU’s School of Materials Science and Engineering and ERI@N, said: “This waste-to-resource approach could also potentially be extended to other types of cellulose-rich fruit and vegetable waste, as well as lithium-ion battery types such as lithium iron phosphate and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide. This would help make great strides towards the new circular economy of e-waste, and power our lives in a greener and more sustainable manner.” Takeaway ~ Household waste Management In the Research and Development Domain Is Very Crucial : The advantage for the environment Trash disposal pollutes the air, water, and soil and has a direct negative influence on the ecosystem. In addition to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, waste management also enhances the state of any place impacted by the waste and the quality of the air and water. The advantage to health Over time, waste and pollutants affect the surrounding animal life, industrial workers, and the health of the exposed adjacent populations. Strict waste management procedures that guarantee safe and appropriate disposal of garbage might help prevent such problems. The financial gain Although waste management techniques are costly, they help with recycling. Purchasing non-recycled material for industrial usage is more expensive in the long term than utilizing recycled material. The advantage of employment The complexity of waste management stems from its potential scope. The need for labor would provide job possibilities all around the nation. The advantage of energy Industries are forced to consume fewer resources from the planet while producing new materials because of the energy produced by some waste management techniques. The gain in efficiency Good waste management practices guarantee that incidents that might endanger people, animals, birds, or other environmental factors due to poor garbage management don't happen. To sum up, Waste management’s future includes turning waste into energy, IoT-enabled practices, improvement in monitoring systems, data collection, and many more technology-based advancements. The team is now looking to further improve the performance of their batteries generated from treated battery waste. They are also optimizing the conditions to scale up production and exploring the possibility of removing the use of acids in the process. Globally, an estimated 50 million tons of e-waste and 1.3 billion tonnes of food waste are produced. This innovative strategy supports a circular economy with zero waste by addressing both food waste and electronic waste.

20 Mar 2024

The Whys and Hows

New Technology Converts Plaster of Paris Waste into Useful Products!

Hazardous trash produced by hospitals and other medical facilities is known as (Plaster Of Paris) POP waste. In dentistry, it is mostly used to make casts and to fix fractured or broken bones. The garbage must be disinfected since it is contaminated with germs. It has an impact on those who gather, sort, and dispose of it in addition to the environment. The Institute of Chemical Technology's Jalna campus in Mumbai and the National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) in Pune has developed a new method tthat treats such waste without doing any harm. Waste is disinfected and transformed into beneficial goods like calcium bicarbonate and ammonium sulfate. It can be utilized as a greener substitute for the incineration procedure that is now in use. The method can also be applied to break down PoP waste from idols submerged in water. This new technique involves treatment with an ammonium bicarbonate (ABC) solution with a concentration of 20 percent. The solution was found to disintegrate the waste into high-value and non-toxic chemicals such as ammonium sulfate and calcium bicarbonate in the form of sludge in 24 hours to 36 hours at room temperature. Ammonium sulfate can be utilized as nitrogen fertilizer, fire-extinguishing powder, and in industries like pharmaceutical, textile, and wood pulp. Calcium carbonate can be used in the metallurgy industry, mainly in steel manufacturing. How It's Impacting ~ There have been efforts to ban the sale of plaster of Paris (PoP) idols for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in the past, but these have proved futile. The biggest hurdle in implementing such a ban is the fact that there is no definitive and comprehensive scientific study on the impact of PoP on the environment. Studies on the impact of idol immersions carried out in places like Bhopal, Jabalpur, and Bengaluru show several significant impacts like a steep rise in the concentration of heavy metals, dissolved solids, and acid content, and a drop in dissolved oxygen. Since these studies mostly center around testing of water quality before and after immersions, the results reflect the cumulative effect of PoP, clay, chemical colors, and other materials; there is no way to ascertain the exact role of PoP in water pollution as well as its larger impact on the environment. Hospital garbage is usually collected and burned by municipal waste collectors. Pollution of the air and soil is caused by incinerating waste because it releases heavy metals and hazardous gasses. Additionally, the ammonium bicarbonate 20% solution has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It could eradicate 99.9% of the microorganisms found in POP trash samples in three hours. In particular, the solution breaks down bio-films developed on plaster in orthopedic wastes. Dr. Mahesh Dharne, the team leader, stated that this approach might be useful in rural and isolated places with no facilities for disposing of biological waste. It was also discovered that the method worked well for breaking apart plaster-of-Paris idols. The Pune Municipal Corporation is interested in utilizing it to address the pollution issue. In the Future~ why do water bodies need our help more than ever? India has an abundance of historically significant waterbodies that are geographically distributed throughout the nation. These water bodies are referred to by many names, including ponds, tanks, lakes, amalgam, lahars, bawdiness, tabs, and others. They are crucial to preserving and reestablishing the ecological equilibrium. They sustain biodiversity, serve as sources of drinking water, replenish groundwater, regulate flooding, and give a lot of people jobs. India is now experiencing a severe water crisis, with several major cities experiencing a severe water deficit and 100 million people living on the country's front lines. The situation is expected to deteriorate further, as forecasts from the United Nations and Niti Ayog indicate that by 2030, 40% of India's population will lack access to safe drinking water, with water demand expected to surpass availability. Our growing carelessness and disregard for protecting water bodies is one of the causes.The government has assumed control over the management of water bodies and water supplies since independence. However, adopting a colonial mindset, authorities prioritize network expansion, infrastructure development, and dam construction, often neglecting local needs and favoring distant water sources. How Can We Contribute? Increasing population, rising standards of living, and rapid growth of industry and urbanization are stressing water resources particularly our rivers which are getting polluted. Rivers are our lifelines and an integral part of our civilization. Many Indian rivers, including the Ganga over several stretches have become unfit even for bathing during the lean season. River catchments and banks should have plantations and should have a minimum flow even during the lean season. The practice of dumping of wastes in the river has to cease for the health of the river. Tips ~ Do Not Litter near a water body such as a lake, river, or sea. Plant trees in catchment areas of rivers and also on banks. Trees not only check soil erosion but also retain soil moisture and feed rivers to keep them flowing. Do not block/ stop natural drains by constructing on drains or dumping wastes. Plant flora in Lakes or Rivers. If you live in an area where a lake or river is present, you might want to think about planting some local plants near the water. Trees are also helpful. Not only do they look beautiful when they grow, but they also help in protecting the water body from pollutants. Vegetation also limits the carbon dioxide in the water, which balances out its pH level. Stop Chemical Pollution. If you notice someone throwing chemicals into the river or lake, or hear about such an incident inform your local authorities about the matter. Give them feedback insisting on a speedy action. Your silence may aggravate the situation. Industrial waste must be treated before discharge into the river. Industries on the banks of the rivers should be persuaded to reduce/ reuse/ recycle treated wastewater. Following religious ceremonies on the river bank prevent leftovers from sliding into the rivers. Convert the river banks into pleasant and clean areas for recreation and walks. Planting appropriate shrubs and trees on the river banks would enhance the environment. Overall, we must see water shortage as a serious issue since it is extremely harmful. Furthermore, once identified, we must take action to preserve it. We can accomplish a lot of things at both the national and individual levels. So, we must band together today to preserve water.

28 Feb 2024

The Whys and Hows

Gemini 1.5, Google's newly updated AI model that hopes to challenge OpenAI

Google is introducing a new version of its language model called Gemini 1.5, just two months after launching the original Gemini. The corporation thinks this new model would propel it to the top of the AI market. In preparation for an upcoming full consumer deployment, Google is now making Gemini 1.5 available to developers and corporate users. The firm is fully committed to using Gemini as a personal assistant, business tool, and all-in-between, and it is making significant progress toward that goal. Meeting the Futuristic Demands ~ The increasing need for more advanced and potent AI models led to the creation of Gemini 1.5 Pro. Even if they were strong, traditional AI models had trouble digesting long data sequences, which made it difficult for them to comprehend and produce complicated material. In response to these difficulties, Gemini 1.5 Pro appears, bringing with it the promise of a new age in AI. What makes Gemini 1.5 Pro so special?-The release of Gemini 1.5 Pro coincides with a pivotal moment in the advancement of AI. It is becoming more and more obvious that improved performance, efficiency, and capability are required as AI models become essential to a broad range of applications. Gemini 1.5 Pro takes these demands on head-on, providing a range of improvements that greatly increase its usefulness and effect. The Difficulties of Small Context The context window size of traditional AI models limits their capacity to process and interpret big datasets in a single instance. This limitation affects the model's comprehension and generating skills, especially in intricate situations with lengthy text, code, or data sequences. Revolution in the Performance and Efficiency '1M token context window' on Gemini 1.5 Pro is revolutionary since it allows the model to analyze large quantities of data at once. This feature not only improves the model's comprehension and output quality but also creates new opportunities for AI applications in a variety of industries. The Requirement for Sophisticated AI Features- More sophisticated AI skills are becoming more and more in demand as industries and technology change. These needs are satisfied by the improved performance and efficiency of Gemini 1.5 Pro, which offers a strong foundation for AI research and development. Analyzing It with "Harry Potter"- Now let's look at an illustration that is a little more relatable to our hearts and bookcases. A popular tale, the "Harry Potter" series features a complicated setting, numerous narrative lines, and a cast of characters that develop and mature throughout seven volumes. It would take a lot of work to analyze it thoroughly for themes, character development, or moral teachings. This AI can quickly understand the entire series. It can explain not just how Harry changes from "The Sorcerer's Stone" to "The Deathly Hallows," but also how the story's recurring themes of bravery, love, and grief are interwoven. It appreciates the series' complexity and subtlety in a manner that segmented analysis could never match, seeing the impact of seemingly little events in early novels on the conclusion. Conventional AI Models- Analyzing "Harry Potter" with a conventional AI model would be similar to attempting to comprehend the narrative by reading a few chapters at a time and then forgetting them as you go on to the next. Even while you could read each book alone, you wouldn't be able to follow the series' overall story or how each character's path is interwoven with the others. Why Is This Important? The ramifications are profound for experts in a variety of domains, including legal analysis, academic research, content production, and more. Imagine having the ability to quickly and correctly process enormous volumes of information—entire libraries' worth—for analysis. Gemini 1.5 Pro's capacity to comprehend and handle such a vast amount of data has the potential to completely transform the way we do research, analyze data, and even tell stories. Adhering Market Research ~ Gemini 1.5 Pro in Action: Imagine using Gemini 1.5 Pro to accomplish the same market research work now. Its improved information retrieval powers effectively focus on the most accurate information, serving as your tour guide through the data avalanche. Industry data: Even in thick, detailed data, Gemini 1.5 Pro can rapidly locate and extract the most important trends and projections about your product. Customer feedback: It can identify certain comments about the functionality or features of your product by analyzing hundreds of reviews from customers on various platforms. Posts on Social Media: Gemini 1.5 Pro is capable of sorting through a tonne of social media information to find the conversations and sentiments that are most pertinent to your target market. Why This Matters: The capacity to swiftly obtain exact information is crucial for professionals who are entrusted with making judgments based on vast datasets, be they in marketing, finance, healthcare, or any other industry. It means not being slowed down by the overwhelming amount of data accessible and being able to build strategies on the most current and correct information. The Innovative Features of Gemini 1.5 Pro Go Well Beyond Its Initial Uses, Transforming a Wide Range of Jobs and Industries. Here Are 15 Real-World Examples Where Its Influence Might Be Revolutionary: Legal Document Analysis: Automating the review of legal documents, contracts, and legislation, making it faster and more accurate. Medical Research: Analyzing vast databases of medical texts and journals to identify trends, treatments, and potential breakthroughs in healthcare. Financial Market Analysis: Processing extensive financial reports and market data to predict trends and inform investment strategies. Language Translation: Enhancing the accuracy and context-awareness of machine translation services across complex documents and conversations. Educational Content Customization: Tailoring educational materials to individual learning styles by analyzing extensive educational content and student feedback. Social Media Monitoring: Offering deeper insights into consumer behavior and sentiment by analyzing large volumes of social media data in real time. Customer Service Automation: Improving chatbots and virtual assistants to provide more accurate, context-aware responses to customer inquiries. Historical Research: Digitizing and analyzing historical documents to uncover insights and trends that were previously inaccessible. Environmental Data Analysis: Processing and interpreting large datasets from climate and environmental research to inform policy and conservation efforts. E-commerce Personalization: Enhancing online shopping experiences by analyzing customer behavior and preferences across vast product catalogs. Urban Planning and Analysis: Analyzing extensive datasets on traffic, population movement, and urban development to inform smarter city planning. Entertainment and Media Analysis: Providing in-depth analysis of scripts, viewer feedback, and trends to inform content creation and marketing strategies. Cybersecurity Threat Analysis: Analyzing large volumes of network data to identify and predict cybersecurity threats more effectively. Supply Chain Optimization: Processing and analyzing extensive supply chain and logistics data to identify efficiencies and optimize operations. Agricultural Research and Forecasting: Analyzing climate data, crop reports, and other agricultural data to improve yield predictions and farming practices. Each of these applications demonstrates the versatility and power of Gemini 1.5 Pro, showcasing its potential to not only enhance existing processes but also to enable new possibilities across a broad spectrum of fields Gemini 1.5 Pro is set to redefine the boundaries of what AI can achieve, offering more sophisticated, efficient, and accurate solutions across the board. In Summary ~ Google's Gemini 1.5 Pro is a groundbreaking advancement in artificial intelligence that redefines its potential uses in a wide range of industries. Gemini 1.5 Pro, with its unique 1M token context window, creative Mixture of Expert design, and improved information retrieval, is proof of Google's dedication to advancing AI technology. Its release signals the start of a new age of AI-driven creativity, impacting everything from scientific research and content production to code development and beyond. We foresee revolutionary effects on a wide range of sectors as we adopt this cutting-edge AI paradigm, portending a day when artificial intelligence will reach its full potential and lead to previously unheard-of breakthroughs and efficiency.

23 Feb 2024

The Whys and Hows

Global Inspirations

This Starry Eyed Boy Fulfills His Dream of Watching Ashes by Picking Garbage of Neighbours for Four Years

12-year-old Max Waight is an embodiment of patience and determination. He worked for four years to earn the pocket money that would allow him to travel to England to watch his favourite team Australia take on the rivals in the ongoing Ashes series. Max who is from Australia had seen his country lift the World Cup in 2015 on their home soil. He soon nurtured a dream to travel to the UK to watch his favourite team take on England in the next high-voltage Ashes series. However, his father said that he could go to England only if he could raise AUD 1500 to make the trip. Max was not deterred by this difficult task of raising money. He and his mother came up with a plan to earn money by taking out the neighbour’s rubbish bins on weekends. Max wrote a letter to all his neighbours about his waste management services. He charged just AUD 1 per household for his services. Many of his neighbours accepted his offer and for four years, Max worked to earn money for his trip. The much-awaited Ashes series is currently taking place in England and Max’s dream came true when he travelled all the way to the UK to watch the exciting cricket match between the rival teams. According to cricket.com.au, Max said that he sat next to Steve Waugh, Justin Langer, and Nathan Lyon. Justin Langer showed him the plan book and he was amazed to see all his notes. ‘Talking to Steve Waugh was amazing too”’ he added. Max was also thrilled to talk to his favourite players Steve Smith and Pat Cummins who shared information about how they prepare and play the game. There may be innumerable fans of the Australian cricket team, but 12-year-old Max stands out for going out of the way to earn money so that he could be present to cheer and support his most loved team. Image Source: MyKhel Tamil

8 Sep 2019

Global Inspirations