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On 7th August, India celebrates National Handloom Day

India celebrates National Handloom Day on 7th August, honoring the rich heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability of traditional weaving. Handloom textiles, crafted without machinery and often using natural dyes, support artisans, promote responsible consumption, and align with goals like poverty alleviation, gender equality, and decent work. Modern designers are blending tradition with contemporary styles, appealing to a new generation. Additionally, innovative projects, like those from the Sri Aurobindo Yoga and Knowledge Foundation, are developing eco-friendly textiles from agricultural residues and waste, fostering community empowerment and environmental responsibility. Together, these efforts weave a future that honors India's cultural legacy while promoting sustainability and inclusivity.

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Sri Aurobindo: Seer of India’s Soul —a Freedom Fighter and Yogi

This passage reflects on the significance of 15th August, India’s Independence Day, highlighting not only the nation’s freedom but also the spiritual legacy of Sri Aurobindo, born in 1872. Although he was initially a freedom fighter who inspired awakening through his fiery words, Aurobindo’s deeper journey was inward, focusing on spiritual revolution after a profound divine experience. He moved to Pondicherry, creating an ashram and envisioning Auroville as a symbol of unity beyond divisions. His teachings emphasize that true freedom extends beyond political independence to inner liberation from fear and ignorance, inspiring us to reflect on the deeper meaning of freedom and listen to his enduring spiritual message.

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The Daivik Moringa Difference: How One Woman's Vision is Growing a Greener Tomorrow

What if every purchase could make a real difference for your health and the environment? Meet Devika Bajaj, the visionary behind Daivik Moringa, who's making this a reality. Inspired by her own path to wellness through Moringa, Devika built a brand that's deeply rooted in nature and a fierce commitment to sustainability.

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World Population Day : People, Planet, and the Power of Choices

A few months ago, I stood at a crowded bus stop, holding my daughter’s hand. The bus arrived already full, and we had to squeeze in with great difficulty. That morning, the water in our tank had run out early, the hospital queue for her vaccination was long. And at the vegetable stall, the price of tomatoes had shot up—again I came home exhausted, wondering why daily life felt so hard. Slowly, I began to understand—these problems weren’t just everyday troubles; they were signs of a deeper issue. From water shortages to traffic, from rising costs to long hospital waits, many of these challenges are connected to our growing population and how we are managing our shared resources. World Population Day, observed every year on July 11, was established by the United Nations in 1989 to raise awareness about such issues. It encourages us to think about population not just as numbers in a textbook, but as something that directly affects our lives—our health, education, environment, and overall well-being. In 2023, India became the most populous country in the world, with over 1.4 billion people. While this is a major milestone, it brings with it both challenges and opportunities.

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This World Yoga Day : Learn What is Yoga and How to Practise ?

When I think back to my school and college days, the word “yoga” meant only one thing to me—physical exercise. It was all about bending and stretching, staying fit, and maybe finding some calm in the process. I saw it as something you did on a mat, in the early morning hours, before rushing off to face the world. It was helpful, yes, but somehow it felt limited—like it only scratched the surface of something much deeper. That understanding changed for me in the most unexpected way— through books. I came across the writings of Sri Aurobindo, and his words lit a quiet fire within me. As I read, I began to feel that yoga was not just about what the body could do—it was about how the soul could grow. His words, “All life is yoga,” echoed in my mind, gently but firmly shifting my perspective. I realized that yoga wasn’t confined to a space or a posture. It was a way of life.

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Featuring Know Your Fish : Pooja Rathod and Mayuresh Gangal, SDG in Action : UN SDG 14

Founded by a group of marine biologists, Know Your Fish is a voluntary initiative that works towards an ocean-friendly lifestyle. Upon identifying a significant gap between scientific research and public understanding regarding sustainable seafood choices, Know Your Fish officially launched their website in 2017, encouraging and empowering consumers to eat seafood responsibly by providing informed choices that are based on a compilation of decades of marine research. As a team of researchers who love the ocean, marine life, and seafood, Know Your Fish aims to help anyone who loves seafood make choices that are sensitive to our oceans and people. Edited excerpts from the interview with Pooja Rathod and Mayuresh Gangal, co- founders of Know Your Fish.

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Featuring Mirambika School SDG in Action : UN SDG 4

At Mirambika, we embrace the philosophy of Free Progress, inspired by the Mother, allowing children to learn at their own pace without rigid expectations. Our approach focuses on engaging, activity-based learning, prioritizing readiness over traditional benchmarks like writing, especially for younger children. By setting clear goals and observing each child's unique traits, we empower them to take charge of their learning journey. Our holistic evaluation system assesses both student and teacher development, with detailed reports for younger students evolving into interpretative assessments for older ones, and a marking system introduced only in class VIII to meet external standards. This nurturing methodology fosters genuine self-discovery and growth for both children and educators.

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Featuring Maya Weaves : Antara Chiripal, SDG in Action : UN SDG 12

Maya Weaves emerged from my reconnection with my Bengali heritage, bridging the gap between traditional handloom crafts and contemporary appreciation. After transitioning from investment banking, I aimed to challenge misconceptions about the value of handmade textiles. Our fully handwoven products, featuring traditional Kantha embroidery crafted from yarns spun from recycled fabrics, embody sustainability and honor ancestral resourcefulness. Despite initial challenges in a male-dominated industry as a first-generation female entrepreneur, I am encouraged by the growing consumer interest in sustainable goods. Through Maya Weaves, I strive to highlight artisan craftsmanship while promoting responsible practices in the handloom sector.

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Featuring Infinos Tech : Sourav Karmakar, SDG in Action : UN SDG 9

Infinos Tech is dedicated to creating technology-driven, customer-centric solutions with a strong commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality. As an innovative startup specializing in robotic research, we aim to develop impactful products for individuals and industries alike. Our flagship offering, the Smart Container, exemplifies our eco-friendly approach by using organic and inorganic materials to achieve cooling without refrigeration, thereby eliminating chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) emissions. We maintain our carbon-neutral status by not including batteries in our designs. The Smart Container efficiently transports multiple items at varying temperatures within a single unit, optimizing energy use, reducing costs, and saving time for our customers.

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Featuring Vishisht Lifestyle : Namrata Agarwal, SDG in Action : UN SDG 12

We are passionate about crafting essential skincare products, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of 10-12 items, such as moisturisers, scrubs, and lip balms, all made with natural ingredients to ensure both safety and environmental sustainability. Our dedication to eco-friendliness is reflected in our zero-waste packaging, which features elegant glass jars paired with compostable labels and materials, and our innovative jar-return program that encourages reuse. While we initially faced challenges in sourcing sustainable materials, we have made it our mission to educate consumers about the importance of eco-friendly choices, and we've witnessed a rising commitment to sustainability in our community. For aspiring sustainable entrepreneurs, focusing on meticulous product refinement through research and design is essential, as is cultivating responsiveness to customer feedback while maintaining a steady growth trajectory and unwavering dedication to your core mission.

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Featuring Avani : Rashmi Bharti, SDG in Action : UN SDG 7; UN SDG 11; UN SDG 12

Our journey commenced in 1991, inspired by a profound love for the Himalayas and the dream of harmonizing life with work. After relocating from Delhi, we encountered various challenges, particularly in transportation and communication, but we found our calling in uplifting traditional artisans who crafted exquisite wool products. By redesigning their offerings, advocating for fair wages, and expanding into silk yarns, we received prestigious recognition, including the UNESCO seal of excellence. Our commitment led us to cultivate wild silk and plant 30,000 host trees, creating a sustainable farm-to-fabric cycle while training local artisans in natural dye techniques. Our curated collection—encompassing carpets, shawls, saris, and eco-friendly art supplies—showcases the rich natural resources of Kumaon and reflects the vibrant artistic heritage of our community. Join us in celebrating sustainable craftsmanship and preserving our cultural legacy.

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Featuring Eco Femme : Kathy Walkling, SDG in Action : UN SDG 3

Our dedicated team of women in Auroville is committed to breaking the silence surrounding menstruation through open dialogue and education. By sharing personal narratives and fostering connections, we aim to transform the perception of menstruation into a natural and empowering experience. Our eco-friendly cloth pads, designed with functionality and sustainability in mind, offer a chemical-free, cost-effective alternative that is accessible to women from diverse backgrounds. Through initiatives like 'Pad for Pad' and 'Pad for Sisters,' we prioritize women's education and empowerment, enabling informed choices about menstrual care and fostering a community of support. Join us in redefining menstruation and embracing its importance in our lives.

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Featuring Bare Necessities : Sahar Mansoor, SDG in Action : UN SDG 3

As an accidental entrepreneur, my journey began while working with waste pickers, where I witnessed their challenging conditions and the urgent need for effective waste management. This prompted the inception of Bare Necessities, a brand dedicated to shifting our approach to waste by offering plant-based, non-polluting products free from harsh chemicals and plastics. Our mission is to provide essential items for daily life, such as shower and dental hygiene products, while prioritizing environmental health. Launched through small pop-ups in 2016-17, Bare Necessities initially attracted young mothers focused on labels, but we've since witnessed a growing interest in sustainability driven by social media and initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Realizing that existing American models didn't fit, I created a guidebook, "Bare Necessities: How to Live a Zero-Waste Life," which compiles valuable resources from Indian non-profits and startups, reflecting what I wished I had known about sustainable living. Through this work, we strive to inspire a more sustainable India.

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Featuring A Yogic life : Dr. Ramesh Bijlani, SDG in Action : UN SDG 3

Sri Aurobindo defines yoga as a structured journey toward self-perfection and union with the divine, highlighting the significance of method in our endeavors—much like steam, which can achieve remarkable outcomes when harnessed effectively. This systematic approach fosters self-improvement and alleviates anxiety, inviting individuals to either surrender to a higher power or strive for their fullest potential, independent of faith. My own evolution in writing about nutrition mirrors this philosophy, as my most recent book emphasizes mindful eating and gratitude, transforming the act of eating into a meaningful ritual. Ultimately, spirituality and yoga are deeply interconnected; true yoga enhances spiritual growth and simplifies existence, promoting a purposeful life that aligns with our higher purpose and encourages sustainability.

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Featuring Recharkha : Amita Deshpande, SDG in Action : UN SDG 11 ; UN SDG 12

Amita Deshpande Founded in 2015, Recharkha is a transformative initiative aimed at promoting sustainable development through waste management, rural employment for women, and conscious consumerism. By crafting beautiful products from non-biodegradable and non-recyclable plastic waste, handmade by rural artisans using traditional charkha and handloom techniques, we strive to create clean, sustainable communities. Our NGO, My EcoSocial Planet, not only focuses on upcycling plastics—ranging from multi-layered packaging to old cassette tape films—but also promotes awareness around waste reduction and proper recycling practices. Operating without electricity or harmful chemicals, our circular production model encourages consumers to return products for further upcycling. Each unique item we create, from bags to home decor, reflects the artistry of our artisans while serving as a reminder for consumers to refuse, reduce, and reuse plastic, ultimately fostering a more mindful approach to consumption.

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Featuring Nine Designs, Anooshka Kuckreja, SDG in Action : UN SDG 12

"Sustainable India" features nine innovative designs by Anooshka Kuckreja, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and cultural heritage. Each design merges sustainability with aesthetics, showcasing products made from renewable materials, traditional crafts, and modern technology. Highlights include upcycled fashion garments, biodegradable home goods, solar-powered gadgets, and zero-waste packaging solutions. The website invites visitors to explore the intersection of design and sustainability, promoting a conscious lifestyle while celebrating India-100s diverse craftsmanship. Users can engage with interactive elements such as virtual showcases, designer interviews, and tutorials on sustainable living, inspiring a community dedicated to environmental responsibility.

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Empowering : Rural and sustainable development

India’s journey toward sustainability involves government policies, corporate responsibility, and community-based actions, all aiming to balance economic growth with environmental and social well-being

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