Devishi Shah is a young Indian environmental advocate who, at just 19 years old, is already making a big difference in the fight against climate change. With her strong passion for sustainability and holding corporations accountable, Devishi has become one of the leading voices in the global climate movement.

Early Life and Inspiration

Growing up in Mumbai, Devishi developed a deep love for nature, thanks to family trips to the Western Ghats. Seeing the pollution and loss of green spaces in her hometown made her realize how important it was to protect the environment. She began her journey by joining local clean-up drives and tree-planting campaigns, but her goals soon expanded to tackle larger environmental issues.

Advocacy and Achievements

Devishi’s work focuses on holding companies responsible for their environmental impact. She believes that to create real change, large industries must be held accountable for pollution and deforestation. That’s why she launched Project Green Accountability, a youth-led initiative that helps monitor and report on companies’ sustainability practices. The project works with schools and universities to inspire young people to join the fight against climate change.

Devishi has also represented India at global climate forums like the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP), where she speaks about the importance of youth involvement in decision-making and the need to shift to renewable energy sources.

Key Campaigns

One of her successful campaigns was the #SustainableChoicesChallenge, which encouraged people to make eco-friendly choices like reducing plastic use, saving water, and supporting local farmers. The campaign reached over 100,000 people through social media, helping spread awareness and inspire action.

Devishi has also worked with NGOs to bring clean energy to rural areas, providing solar-powered lights and clean cooking stoves to hundreds of families, improving their quality of life while cutting down on carbon emissions.

Recognitions and Awards

Devishi’s hard work has earned her many awards, such as the Youth Climate Leader Award and a spot on the “30 Under 30 Environmental Changemakers” list. She was also invited to join the advisory panel of a global climate action network.

Vision for the Future

Despite her many achievements, Devishi remains focused on the road ahead. She wants to create a world where environmental consciousness is part of every aspect of society—from government policies to personal lifestyles. She plans to grow Project Green Accountability, partnering with international organizations to push for stricter environmental laws.

Devishi believes that change comes when millions of people make small efforts to live sustainably. She often says, “The planet doesn’t need a handful of people doing sustainability perfectly; it needs millions doing it imperfectly.”

How India’s Youth Can Contribute

As we celebrate National Youth Day, Devishi’s story is a powerful reminder that young people have the energy, creativity, and passion to make a big impact. Here are some ways all of India’s youth can help protect the environment:

1. Join local initiatives like clean-up drives, tree planting, and sustainability campaigns.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Make small changes like using less plastic, saving water, and supporting eco-friendly businesses.
3. Raise awareness by talking to friends, family, and on social media about the importance of sustainability.
4. Support clean energy by advocating for solar power, wind energy, and other renewable solutions in your community.
5. Get involved in policy: Join youth groups that focus on climate justice and help push for better environmental laws.

Devishi Shah shows that one young person can inspire thousands to make a difference. Her journey proves that with determination and passion, India's youth can drive meaningful change for the environment and create a more sustainable future.