TOI Ecopreneur Honours 2025: IFFCO MD Dr Udai Shanker Awasthi calls for sustainable agriculture and youth action
Speaking during his keynote address, Dr Awasthi urged India's youth and eco-entrepreneurs to lead the way in developing solutions that balance growth with environmental protection.
'The whole idea of saving the planet began when we realised that our own development was creating problems,' Dr Awasthi said.
He noted that while development is necessary, it also increases the use of energy and natural resources, which causes damage to the environment.
Dr Awasthi stressed that the time has come to correct this imbalance. He said that sustainable agriculture is one of the most pressing challenges for every country, including those in the Middle East, which are now also looking at eco-friendly farming methods. 'We don't need to change everything overnight. But we do need to move in the right direction. And things are slowly changing,' he said.
He pointed to carbon dioxide emissions and methane from traditional chemical fertilisers, such as urea, as major contributors to environmental harm.
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He highlighted the need to switch to alternatives like nano fertilisers, which have a smaller ecological impact.
Calling eco-entrepreneurs 'much needed,' Dr Awasthi said, 'The patents and innovations by eco-preneurs must be protected. Their products and the money invested in them must not go to waste.' He also shared ideas for young entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas, encouraging them to focus on long-term, sustainable development solutions.
'Profit and planet can and must co-exist':
Prasad Sanyal
The event opened with an address by Prasad Sanyal, Business Head of The Times of India (digital), who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the evening. He said the Ecopreneur Honours recognises those who are working quietly yet effectively in the field of sustainability.
'In today's noisy world, there are still places where people work with intent, sustainability,' Sanyal said. He pointed out that sustainability is no longer a side concern and that 'the new India is looking for meaning.'
Sanyal added that the awards aim to honour individuals and organisations that have helped shape policy, promoted green growth, and taken real action against the climate crisis. 'Profit and planet can and must co-exist,' he said.
He ended his speech by reminding everyone of the urgency of climate change. 'Climate crisis is today's lived reality,' Sanyal said, adding that in this context, 'recognition matters.'
The TOI Ecopreneur Honours celebrates sustainability champions across India — from individuals to corporates — who are building a greener future.
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