Viral Desai’s ‘Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change’ Movement Inspires Youth to Become Environmental Warriors
New Delhi, India, June 5, 2023 — Drawing inspiration from the principles of ‘Satyagraha’ and ‘non-violence’ that guided Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in their fight for freedom, Viral Desai, also known as Greenman, has launched a campaign to combat global warming and climate change. Through his innovative movement, ‘Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change,’ Desai is inspiring the youth of Surat to become ‘Paryavaran Senani’ (Environmental Warriors) and actively contribute to environmental protection.
A Modern-Day Satyagraha for the Environment
Viral Desai’s mission to protect the environment mirrors the non-violent, collective efforts that defined India’s freedom struggle. His movement in Surat focuses on educating students in schools and colleges, urging them to take action against pollution, global warming, and climate change.
Desai, through his NGO ‘Hearts At Work,’ has made a significant impact on Surat’s environmental landscape. The campaign has led to the planting of over 3.5 lakh trees throughout the city. Additionally, Desai collaborated with the Indian Railways to transform Surat’s Udhana Railway Station into the “First Green Railway Station in India, Asia, and the World,” a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable infrastructure.
National Recognition for Environmental Efforts
Viral Desai’s remarkable efforts in the field of environmental protection have earned him numerous accolades. In 2022, the President of India, Draupadi Murmu, presented him with the prestigious ‘National Energy Conservation Award’ for his extraordinary contribution to pollution control and environmental protection in the textile industry. This marks the sixth time Desai has received this award, having previously been recognized by three distinguished Presidents of India.
Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future
Desai’s ‘Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change’ movement focuses on educating the youth in Surat and across South Gujarat about environmental responsibility. He interacts with students, raising awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and inspiring them to take ownership of their actions.
“Mahatma Gandhiji and Sardar Patelji have taught us a valuable lesson through their freedom struggle—large problems can only be tackled through the collective efforts of society. These efforts must be constructive and non-violent,” said Viral Desai. “Inspired by their teachings, I launched this movement to achieve freedom from climate change, pollution, and global warming.”
Desai’s approach is centered around the ‘Triple A’ principle: awareness, attitude, and action. Through this principle, students are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles, conserve energy and water, support green energy initiatives, and protect biodiversity.
Expanding Reach and Impact
The movement has already impacted approximately 100,000 students from schools and colleges in Surat and South Gujarat. In a significant development, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board’s (GPCB) regional office in Surat has joined forces with Desai’s movement, further strengthening its reach and impact.
Viral Desai’s ‘Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change’ is not only a call to action but also a powerful reminder that small, individual efforts can lead to large-scale environmental change. Through this movement, he is nurturing a generation of young environmental warriors ready to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time.
For more information about Viral Desai’s initiatives and to get involved in the movement, visit Hearts At Work.
Rajneesh Singh is a journalist at Asian News, specializing in entertainment, culture, international affairs, and financial technology. With a keen eye for the latest trends and developments, he delivers fresh, insightful perspectives to his audience. Rajneesh’s passion for storytelling and thorough reporting has established him as a trusted voice in the industry.
