Dr. Anu Kumar

India is fighting a silent but deadly war — not against an enemy across borders, but against something festering within: waste. From plastic-choked drains to landfill mountains that smolder like volcanoes, our waste crisis is exploding — and we are running out of time.

Despite ambitious missions like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the ground reality remains grim. India generates over 160,000 tonnes of waste daily, yet nearly half of it remains unprocessed, dumped into overflowing yards or rivers. The cost? Not just dirty streets, but contaminated water, toxic air, rising diseases, and an ecosystem in retreat.

But this is not just a cleanliness problem — it’s a mindset problem. Waste is not just what we throw away; it’s what we fail to value. In truth, waste is wealth in disguise — biodegradable waste can generate biogas and compost, while plastic and e-waste can fuel energy and innovation. My research in microbial and nanotechnology-based waste degradation shows promise in accelerating the breakdown of persistent pollutants — turning garbage into green gold.

What India needs now is a people-powered revolution. Segregation at source should become a daily habit, not a government campaign. Local bodies must be empowered with smart recycling infrastructure, while citizens must rise as waste warriors, not mere spectators.

Yes, the war on waste is far from over. But it’s a war worth fighting — for our health, for our environment, and for generations to come.

Can India win this battle? Only if we all join the fight — not once a year, but every single day.

(The writer is a Microbiologist & Associate Professor, Chandigarh University)