Women, especially mothers, are on the frontlines of air pollution’s health impacts.
Women Leading Solutions for Clean Air in Punjab latest news: As Punjab grapples with rising air pollution and its devastating impact on public health, a group of dynamic women is leading the charge for change. These women—from researchers and educators to community leaders and activists—are working on tangible solutions to reduce air pollution and build a cleaner, healthier future.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we recognize their efforts in tackling Punjab’s environmental crisis, whether through scientific research, community engagement, advocacy, or policymaking.
Leading Women Driving Solutions for Punjab’s Clean Air Future
Dr. Amrita Rana – Championing Health Advisory in Punjab
Dr. Amrita Rana is a leading advocate for public health and air pollution awareness in Punjab. She has been at the forefront of efforts to address the severe health impacts of air pollution, particularly on marginalized communities, women, and children. Through health advisories, workshops, and public campaigns, she empowers vulnerable populations with the knowledge and resources needed to protect their well-being.
“Air pollution is more than an environmental concern—it’s a pressing public health emergency. Women and children are the most affected, and immediate action is crucial to safeguard their health,” she urges.
Dr. Sita – Advancing Solutions at AirCare Centre
As the head of the AirCare Centre, Dr. Sita is leading efforts to reduce stubble burning, a major source of air pollution in Punjab. Working with a team of ten fellows, she analyzes fire count data and develops practical strategies to minimize farm fires.
“Stubble burning is a challenge we can address with data-driven solutions and community collaboration. Our research focuses on bridging the gap between farmers and policymakers to create sustainable alternatives,” she emphasizes.
Indu Aurora – Strengthening Air Quality Monitoring and Environmental Action
As President of Voice of Amritsar, Indu Aurora has been a tireless advocate for stronger air quality monitoring and environmental policies in Punjab. She firmly believes that accurate and transparent data collection is the foundation for effective policymaking.
Beyond air monitoring, Indu has organized multiple convenings with key stakeholders to address critical environmental concerns, including construction and demolition waste management and the alarming depletion of Punjab’s green cover. By bringing together policymakers, environmental experts, and community leaders, she is fostering collaborative solutions to tackle these pressing issues.
“Without accurate data, we cannot solve the problem. Transparent and continuous air quality monitoring is the first step towards meaningful progress. But monitoring alone isn’t enough—we need collective action to protect our environment and public health,” she emphasizes.
Nidhi Sindhwani – Championing Women’s Health and Clean Air
As the secretary of Rotary and a member of Phulkari, one of Amritsar’s largest women’s networks, Nidhi Sindhwani is a passionate advocate for women’s health and clean air. She actively raises awareness about the link between air pollution and public health, highlighting its disproportionate impact on women and children.
Through her engagement with government agencies and community groups, Nidhi pushes for stronger air quality policies and grassroots solutions. She believes that empowering women with knowledge and advocacy tools is key to driving meaningful change.
“Women, especially mothers, are on the frontlines of air pollution’s health impacts. We need stronger policies and community-driven solutions to protect our families and ensure a healthier future,” she asserts.
Deepa Swani – Inspiring Youth Through Air Quality Education
At Clean Air Punjab, Deepa Swani is shaping the future by integrating air pollution awareness into the education system. She is developing an environmental curriculum that equips young people with the knowledge and tools to understand and address air quality challenges.
By working with schools, educators, and community groups, Deepa hopes to foster a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who can advocate for cleaner air and sustainable practices.
“Children must grow up understanding the importance of clean air. Our goal is to empower them with knowledge and action-oriented solutions so they can become champions for a healthier environment,” she shares.
Samita Kaur – Holding Municipalities and Industries Accountable for Cleaner Air
Samita Kaur is a relentless advocate against industrial pollution and waste mismanagement, working at the intersection of policy and grassroots activism. She actively pushes municipal bodies to enforce stricter regulations on industrial emissions and improve waste disposal systems, ensuring cleaner air and healthier communities.
Beyond policy advocacy, she educates schoolchildren about the dangers of pollution and the importance of sustainable waste management. She also champions afforestation efforts to restore Punjab’s green cover, reinforcing the critical link between urban greenery and air quality.
“Clean air isn’t just about reducing vehicle emissions—it’s about holding industries and municipalities accountable for their environmental impact. Stronger policies, better enforcement, and community-driven initiatives can drive real change,” she asserts.
Shweta Mehra – Advocating for Zero Waste Communities
As an educator and mentor with Clean Air Punjab, Shweta Mehra is a strong proponent of zero waste management, encouraging households and communities to minimize waste through composting, recycling, and sustainable practices. She believes that a shift towards zero waste living is essential for reducing pollution and improving air quality.
“Waste isn’t just something to discard—it’s something we can manage responsibly. By embracing zero waste practices, every household can contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment,” she emphasizes.
Gurpreet Kaur – A Mother’s Mission for Clean Air
Gurpreet Kaur, a young mother from Ludhiana, is leading Clean Air Punjab’s efforts to advocate for stronger pollution control in local communities. Driven by the need to protect future generations, she has worked closely with municipalities as an IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) partner, ensuring that air quality awareness reaches both policymakers and the public.
Her impact extends to educating over 4,000 schoolchildren in Ludhiana about air pollution and its health effects. She also spearheaded the installation of a lung billboard in the city, offering a stark visual representation of how pollution affects respiratory health. Beyond awareness, she has collaborated with partners on the Pink Auto scheme under Raahi, consistently engaging with women auto drivers to promote clean mobility solutions.
“As a mother, I feel the urgency to act. Our children deserve clean air, and we must work together to ensure that,” she says. “Continuous air quality monitoring is the first step towards meaningful progress.”
A Call to Action
These women represent the power of collective action in tackling Punjab’s pollution crisis. From research to community engagement, they are proving that change is possible when individuals step up to drive solutions.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, their message is clear: clean air is a right, not a privilege, and every citizen has a role to play in ensuring a pollution-free Punjab.
