On August 15th, environmentalist Pravin Mishra took another step towards strengthening urban bio-diversity in Delhi by planting carefully chosen plants that not only add greenery but also support ecological balance in the city. These plants, selected for their resilience and environmental benefits, aim to improve air quality, provide shade, and sustain local bird and insect species. Mishra’s initiative is a reminder that small but consistent efforts can make a significant impact on urban ecosystems, ensuring that Delhi maintains its green lungs amid rapid urbanization. Through such acts, he continues to inspire citizens to take part in preserving and nurturing the city’s natural heritage for a healthier and more sustainable future.
Environmental crusader Pravin Mishra has been honored with the prestigious #TOIEcopreneur2025 award by Times of India for his exceptional contribution to urban sustainability.
As the driving force behind Mission Green Delhi, he has inspired citizens to grow terrace gardens, hosted countless workshops, led awareness campaigns, and distributed thousands of saplings across the city. His grassroots efforts are proving that climate action begins at home.
The award was proudly presented by Harpreet Suri, TEDx Speaker and India’s most searched mom influencer, along with Manya Pathak, the renowned Delhi-based entrepreneur and Dilli Darlings fame.
A proud moment for Team Mission Green Delhi and the 400+ green warriors who are transforming the city—one rooftop at a time.
Delhi, the heart of India, boasts of rich heritage, iconic monuments, and vibrant culture. But one glaring problem continues to tarnish its image — littering. From plastic wrappers on the streets to overflowing garbage in residential colonies, the city is fighting a daily battle to stay clean. Despite awareness campaigns and Swachh Bharat slogans, irresponsible public behavior remains a major hurdle.
It’s time the government takes stricter action — and the solution is simple: those who litter should clean the area they polluted.
A Practical and Just Punishment
The idea is rooted in accountability. If someone throws garbage on the street, they should not just be fined but compelled to clean the entire stretch they dirtied — either then and there or within a stipulated time under supervision. This approach can be implemented through local municipal bodies or RWAs in coordination with Delhi Police or civic marshals.
This isn’t just a punishment — it’s a powerful lesson. It forces offenders to confront their own mess and understand the hard work sanitation workers do every day.
Learning from Global Examples
Several cities across the world already follow such models. In Singapore, people caught littering are fined heavily and made to clean public spaces wearing a bright vest that identifies them as offenders. The result? Clean streets and heightened public responsibility.
Community Clean-Up Drives with a Twist
The Delhi government could also organize community clean-up drives where those caught littering must participate mandatorily. This not only punishes but educates. When citizens clean their own surroundings, they are less likely to dirty them again.
Empowering the Public to Report
An app-based system can allow citizens to report littering incidents. If someone sees someone littering, they can report it with photo evidence. The offender can then be traced and made accountable through community service.
A Cultural Shift
For Delhi to become truly clean, we need to shift our mindset from “someone else will clean it” to “I must keep it clean.” Punishing littering through public cleaning duties is not just about punishment — it’s about sparking a behavioral change. It will remind everyone that public places are shared spaces, not dumping grounds.
