Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has extended the deadline for submitting ideas to the Ideas4LiFE initiative until 15 October 2024. The move aims to encourage broader participation in generating innovative solutions for environmental sustainability.

Speaking at IIT Bombay, Minister Yadav pointed out the need for economic progress to go hand-in-hand with ecological development. “Developed economies should also embrace developed ecologies. We must all cultivate a strong environmental consciousness as responsible citizens,” he stated. This event, organised by the Ministry in collaboration with the Maharashtra Environment Department, seeks to inspire students, faculty, and researchers to contribute to a greener lifestyle.

The Ideas4LiFE event, which took place at IIT Bombay, was designed to engage the academic community in Mumbai and across India. It attracted around 1,200 participants, including students, research scholars, and faculty members from various educational institutions.

Minister also planted a sapling at IIT Bombay as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 5 June 2024. He highlighted the need for a balanced approach to development, one that recognises the interconnectedness of all life forms and the environment.

He pointed out that the government had achieved its renewable energy targets nine years ahead of schedule and had launched the Soil Health Card initiative to reduce chemical use in agriculture. “Life encompasses more than just human needs. We must advocate for the harmonious co-existence of all living beings and the environment,” said Yadav.

The Minister stressed the importance of a holistic approach to development, which includes reducing waste and addressing global food waste, estimated at 15 billion tonnes annually. He urged students to contribute their ideas to enhance environmental preservation and sustainable development.

The Ideas4LiFE ideathon addresses seven themes under Mission LiFE: Save Water, Save Energy, Reduce Waste, Reduce E-Waste, Say No to Single-Use Plastics, Adopt Sustainable Food Systems, and Adopt Healthy Lifestyles.