Is India Winning the War Against Pollution? The fight for cleaner air and water intensifies as the nation grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change. From the devastating floods in Assam to the alarming rise in air pollution levels in Delhi, environmental challenges demand urgent action. This week saw crucial discussions on sustainable agriculture and renewable energy sources at the India Climate Change Conference, highlighting the government's commitment to tackling deforestation and promoting biodiversity conservation. But are these efforts enough? Experts warn of looming water scarcity and the need for stricter regulations on industrial emissions. The future of India's environment hangs in the balance, demanding collective responsibility and innovative solutions. Explore Abtak.com for in-depth analysis and the latest updates on environmental policies, climate activism, and the ongoing struggle for a sustainable India. Discover how you can contribute to a greener tomorrow.
The fashion landscape is evolving, embracing a shift towards sustainability and ethical choices. In today's world, sustainable fashion isn't just a trend but a necessity, reflecting a commitment to the planet. Indian brands are leading this transformation, offering luxurious and thoughtfully crafted pieces that connect us to our heritage. Supporting these homegrown brands not only fosters sustainability but also honours their conscious ideologies. As Anita Dongre said, "Sustainability is the future of fashion." This resonates with the rise of vegan leather, a perfect blend of style and responsibility. Among these, handbags stand out as an accessory that redefines elegance while caring for the environment. Let's explore my top 5 favourite vegan leather handbag brands making waves in fashion today. And a curated range of picks to help you end the year with a conscious buy for your closet! India's traditional textile and leather industries have deep roots, with handwoven fabrics like khadi and silk, and leather craftsmanship long part of its heritage. However, concerns over sustainability have emerged due to the environmental impact of leather production and resource exploitation. In recent years, Indian consumers have become more aware of these issues, driving demand for sustainable fashion. Brands offering vegan leather and eco-friendly materials are gaining popularity as consumers seek products aligned with their values. The government is also supporting sustainable fashion through policies promoting green practices and artisan welfare. Rising environmental awareness and the accessibility of eco-conscious products are key factors shaping the demand for responsible fashion in India. Vegan leather is a synthetic alternative to traditional leather, made from materials like polyurethane (PU), PVC, or plant-based alternatives such as cork, pineapple leaves, or apple peels. It offers significant environmental benefits, producing less pollution and requiring fewer resources compared to animal-derived leather. Vegan leather is also cruelty-free, aligning with ethical standards by eliminating the need for animal products. Recent technological advancements have led to more durable, flexible, and sustainable vegan leather options, including biodegradable and water-based solutions that reduce their environmental impact even further, making it an increasingly popular choice for eco-conscious consumers. Zouk is an Indian; 100% vegan brand that is reshaping handbag trends with its innovative designs. Offering a range of stylish, sustainable bags; including laptop bags, sling bags, and backpacks that are all crafted from Ikat fabric and Jute Khadi along with vegan leather, Zouk delivers runway-worthy pieces. Each item is handcrafted by skilled artisans, combining eco-conscious materials with fashion-forward designs that make a statement in both style and sustainability. Top picks from Zouk you need to see up close as well! Allen Solly vegan handbags are crafted using innovative materials like apple peel and plant-based leather, merging sustainability with style. These eco-friendly bags offer a chic, modern look while reducing environmental impact. With their trendy designs and commitment to cruelty-free fashion, Allen Solly is leading the way in creating fashionable, sustainable accessories for the conscious consumer. Top Allen Solly bags that will be your next arm candy! Tiger Marron offers a handcrafted range of classic and unique accessories made from recycled vegan leather. With a keen focus on striking design and affordability, Tiger Marron's products blend sustainability with fashion-forward appeal. Their vertically integrated supply chain ensures high-quality, durable items that stay relevant season after season. For those with an eye for fashion and expression, Tiger Marron's timeless accessories are built to last and make a lasting statement. The brand also offers top-grain biodegradable leather options along with its vegan range. Mokobara, an Indian startup luxury brand, offers a stylish collection of bags, backpacks, and totes crafted from premium vegan leather. With a focus on sustainability and fashion, Mokobara combines innovative designs with eco-friendly materials. Mokobara's commitment to quality and style makes these accessories a must-have for conscious fashion lovers. They have made vegan leather and sustainable accessories truly a fashion statement and revolution in the country. Top Mokobara handbags to change the way you style everyday outfits! The Gusto is a cruelty-free brand that crafts high-quality bags and accessories using vegan materials. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in India by skilled artisans, blending sustainability with exceptional design. With a focus on ethical fashion, The Gusto offers stylish and durable products that make a statement in both quality and eco-consciousness, perfect for those seeking fashionable, cruelty-free options. Top The Gusto handbags to carry your essentials sustainably! 10 Best Miraggio bags: Stylish, affordable handbags for women for every occasion Best handbags for women - Style your outfit with trendy collections Best branded handbags for women: Top 10 stylish choices for every occasion
Taking an eco-friendly step, the University of Jammu has announced a ban on the entry of four-wheelers on the campus with effect from 5 December. Taking an eco-friendly step, the University of Jammu has announced a ban on the entry of four-wheelers on the campus with effect from 5 December. Prof Prakash Antahal, Chief Proctor, said that the University had been planning for a long time to implement this Green Campus initiative. However, the decision was delayed due to non-availability of a designated parking slot. Now that the parking facility is ready, the University has taken this decisive ...Read More >
New Delhi: The Italian luxury couture label shocked the desi fans after they featured at least seven of the 56 runway looks featuring sandals that bear a striking resemblance to traditional Indian Kolhapuri Chappals - without any credit. After facing backlash over it, Prada has finally acknowleged that the footwear pieces featured in its Men's 2026 Spring/Summer show in Milan, were inspired by the traditional Indian handcrafted pieces made in specific districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka. In an exclusive response to NDTV, the Prada Group Press Office mentioned, "At Prada Group, we have alwa ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], December 3 (ANI): On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the World Health Organisation (WHO) South-East Asia Region has called for amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities to foster an inclusive and sustainable future. WHO's Regional Director, Saima Wazed, stressed that empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring their active participation in all sectors is essential to addressing the barriers they face, particularly in healthcare and during humanitarian crises. Also Read | South Korea Unrest: Martial Law Troops Enter Nat ...Read More >
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged five individuals, including goldy Brar, in relation to the 2024 Gurugram club bombing plot, as revealed in a recently filed chargesheet. This case involves a conspiracy to bomb two clubs, aiming to disrupt communal harmony in Haryana, with the banned terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) implicated. The NIA's investigation highlights the severity of the plot. Those charged include satinderjit Singh (Goldy Brar), Sachin Talian, Ankit, Bhavish, and Randeep Singh. News Directory 3 provides crucial updates on sensitive cases such ...Read More >
NEW DELHI: The government on Saturday extended the term of the chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Ravi Agrawal by one year, an official notification said.The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the re-appointment of Agrawal, an IRS officer of the 1988 batch, as CBDT chairman for one year from July 1 this year to June 30, 2026, on contract basis.Agrawal took over as the CBDT chairman from Nitin Gupta in June 2024 after Gupta's extended tenure ended. Agrawal has been a member of CBDT. He was member administration and had served as DG investigation in Delhi. The gover ...Read More >
This is a Mint Premium article gifted to you. Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. New Delhi: The debate on laboratory-grown meat, dairy, and egg products may soon be settled, with the issue reaching India's apex food regulator, three people aware of the development said. The development comes in the backdrop of concerns about public health, food security and ecological sustainability. While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put in place a regulatory framework for plant-based protein products, manufacturers and sellers of fermentation-derived and cultivated protein ...Read More >
New Delhi: Three Indian citizens vanished mysteriously in Tehran. Darkness closed in as hope seemed lost. A ruthless Pakistani gang with potential links to ISI snatched them away, casting a shadow of fear. But relentless Indian diplomats refused to back down. Against all odds, a daring rescue mission ignited. Now, the captives are free, and a chilling game of espionage comes to light. The Punjab-based trio - Amritpal Singh from Hoshiarpur, Jaspal Singh from SBS Nagar and Hushnapreet Singh from Sangrur - had landed in Iran on May 1. Promised a clandestine route to Australia via Dubai and Tehra ...Read More >
New Delhi: India on Friday restricted the imports of jute, woven fabrics and yarns from Bangladesh from any land port on the border. "Import from Bangladesh shall not be allowed from any land port on India-Bangladesh border. However, it is allowed only through Nhava Sheva seaport...Import of certain goods from Bangladesh to India are regulated with immediate effect," the Directorate General of Foreign Trade said in a notification. In May, India had imposed port restrictions on import of certain products such as readymade garments and processed food from Bangladesh. Friday's regulation is on ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jun 28 (PTI) Following the backlash after featuring footwear strongly resembling Kolhapuri chappals, Italian fashion house Prada has acknowledged that it was inspired by the Indian handcrafted footwear. "We acknowledge that the sandals featured in the recent Prada Men's 2026 Fashion Show are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage. "We deeply recognize the cultural significance of such Indian craftsmanship," said Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, in a letter to Lalit Gandhi, president of Maharashtra Chamb ...Read More >
Shimla: Heavy rains lashed Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, triggering landslides and flash floods and blocking more than 100 roads, even as the weather department issued a red alert.A landslide at Chakki Mod near Parwanoo blocked the Chandigarh-Shimla highway for hours, resulting in a massive traffic jam Sunday morning. The local administration had to divert traffic through the Jangeshu link road until the landslide debris was cleared at Chakki Mod.The traffic was first restored one-way and later two-way, but the traffic jam continued on both sides of the highway throughout the day due to slow veh ...Read More >
KATHUA: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kathua Waterfront and dedicated the landmark urban rejuvenation project to the people of Kathua. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor congratulated the District Administration Kathua for providing a unique public space that will foster community interaction and cultural activities in the beautiful and historical city of Kathua. He said, the 1200-meter stretch along Kathua Canal in the heart of the city will shape urban landscape, economy, and social fabric and enhance the city's identity and livability. "Kathua Waterfront blend ...Read More >
Kathua (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 8 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Kathua Waterfront, a transformative urban rejuvenation project, on Sunday, dedicating it to the people of Kathua as a space for recreation, wellness, and community engagement. The 1,200-metre stretch along the Kathua Canal is designed to reshape the city's landscape, economy, and social fabric while promoting sustainability and women's empowerment. LG Sinha emphasised that the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for urban transformation, calling it a 'foun ...Read More >
VIJAYAWADA: The State government on Friday accorded approvals to a slew of industries. Among those are Krishnapatnam Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), which is set to establish a 350 MW Solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Thamminapatnam and Mommidi villages of SPSR Nellore district with a Rs 1,225 crore investment, creating 575 jobs. Furthermore, the government also waived off a Rs 54 crore extension of time fee, contingent on project completion within two years as per the Andhra Pradesh Integrated Clean Energy Policy-2024. The government also allocated 22.80 acres at MPSEZ in N ...Read More >
New Delhi, June 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) After facing severe backlash, Italian fashion house Prada has officially admitted that the Kolhapuri Chappals, featured in the recent Prada Men's 2026 Fashion Show, is inspired by India's handcrafted footwear traditions. In a letter to Lalit Gandhi, president of Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, Prada noted that it is "open for meaningful exchange with artisans". "We acknowledge that the sandals featured in the recent Prada Men's 2026 Fashion Show are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old herita ...Read More >
Neiphiu Rio (left) during the opening of the new State Emporium Complex in Kohima on Friday Sourced by the Telegraph Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday inaugurated a seven-storey facility in Kohima to serve as a hub for Naga handloom, handicrafts and cultural promotion. The Nagaland State Emporium Complex includes a dedicated state emporium on the first floor, three floors of shopping areas, a restaurant and library, a fully furnished conference hall and guest accommodations for visiting artisans and officials. At the inauguration, Rio expressed his appreciation for all those inv ...Read More >
Chennai, June 2025: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. is proud to commemorate a significant milestone in its manufacturing journey with the completion of 10 years of operations at its Chennai Factory. Reinforcing its role as a critical production base for both domestic and global markets, the company also celebrated the roll-out of its 5 millionth two-wheeler from this state-of-the-art facility -- an Aerox 155 Version S that marked the milestone. Over the past decade, the Chennai plant has become a cornerstone of Yamaha's global operations to serve both Indian customers and export markets. I ...Read More >
New Delhi, Jun 30 (PTI) India has hardened its position on issues related to agriculture as negotiations with the US team in Washington have entered a crucial stage, an official said on Monday. The official also said that the stay of the Indian team, headed by special secretary in the department of commerce Rajesh Agrawal, is expected to be extended further. The team is in Washington for negotiations on an interim trade agreement with the US. Both sides are rushing to close a deal ahead of the July 9 deadline for the full implementation of a 26 per cent reciprocal tariff which has been suspe ...Read More >
New Delhi, June 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) A robust micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) ecosystem is not only important but also essential for the country's sustainable economic development, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday. Addressing the 'MSME Day' celebration in the national capital, she said that MSMEs are a strong pillar of the country's economy. "They contribute significantly to GDP and promote innovation at the grassroots level. These enterprises generate more employment opportunities at a relatively low cost of capital. Most importantly, these enterprises generate employment ...Read More >
Gurgaon: MCG additional commissioner Yash Jaluka directed bulk waste generators (BWG) across the city to ensure proper disposal of waste by private agencies who are assisting them. Giving these instructions in a meeting held on Friday, he said it is often observed that BWGs hand over their waste to private agencies, which only sort valuable items and dump the remaining waste on roads, drains, vacant land or public places. This, he said, not only affects cleanliness of the city but also poses a threat to public health."Under the Solid Waste Management Rules-2016, it is the legal and moral respo ...Read More >
Bengaluru: Electric vehicles are powering the green transformation of India's ecommerce industry. Amid an overall surge in order volumes, companies like Flipkart, Amazon, BigBasket, Swiggy, and Eternal (formerly Zomato) are speeding up the transition to ecofriendly vehicles for last-mile delivery, especially quick commerce. This is helping cut costs while lowering emissions and reducing the climate footprint. Walmart-backed Flipkart is looking to make its entire logistics fleet electric. After achieving the operational fleet milestone of 10,000 EVs last September, the company expanded its EV ...Read More >
Haridwar: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sakshi Maharaj on Sunday demanded that hotel, dhaba and eatery owners on the Kanwar Yatra routes should display their names and identities on boards outside their business establishments. The owners, who hide their identities under fake names, on the Kanwar Yatra routes should not be spared, he told reporters here. "Tampering with faith of the Hindu devotees during the Kanwar Yatra will not be tolerated," said the Unnao MP. The food shops on the Kanwar Yatra routes should have a board outside with the names of their owners clearly written on them, h ...Read More >
JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu has etched its name in the annals of Indian higher education by securing two of the most prestigious international accreditations-BGA (Business Graduates Association) and EFMD Programme Accreditation for its flagship MBA program-within the same year. This remarkable feat establishes IIM Jammu as one of only five IIMs among the 21 IIMs across the country to hold both accreditations and the only second- and third-generation IIM to do so, marking a golden chapter in its journey of excellence. The twin accreditations affirm IIM Jammu's rapid ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], November 26: Elitas Appliances, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in home appliances, has officially launched its product line in India. Known for combining cutting-edge technology with elegant design, Elitas seeks to establish itself as a key player in the consumer durables sector, providing Indian households with superior, eco-friendly products. Also Read | From Nana Patekar's 'The Attacks of 26/11' to Dev Patel's 'Hotel Mumbai', 5 Movies and Shows That Explored the Horrific 2008 Mumbai Attacks and Where To Watch Them Online. Elitas's range of home appliance ...Read More >
The University of Bath is named one of the world's top 150 universities by the QS World University Rankings 2025 Offering leading MSc programmes, the University of Bath School of Management excels in combining world-class education with real-world learning opportunities. The University of Bath's School of Management is rapidly gaining international recognition as one of the United Kingdom's premier business schools. This prestigious university is first in Marketing, second in Accounting and Finance, second in Business and Management Studies in the UK according to The Complete University Guid ...Read More >
Indian sustainability startups are currently at the forefront in terms of handling critical environmental challenges. They are emerging with innovating solutions frequently for a greener future. Key Communications recently conducted a survey and it reports that the startups are in need of urgent support to make their journey less struggling. The survey reveals that more than 60% of sustainability startups in the country believe that they need stronger government backing with respect to growth and funding. Currently there are about 6,600 cleantech startups in India and such ventures are import ...Read More >
PNN New Delhi [India], December 12: In the 21st century, the world is going green in phases, and therefore using renewable sources of energy isn't going to harm the environment, but it's going to benefit your pocket. On average, the IEA has anticipated an increase of renewable energy sources' capacity by 75% from 2022 to 2027, spearheaded by solar and wind energy. Renewable energy investment is already at more than $50 billion annually in the United States. It is projected to climb even higher as federal incentives such as the Inflation Reduction Act push this sector forward. To the industr ...Read More >
West Bengal [India], February 5 (ANI): At the 8th edition of the Bengal Global Business Summit 2025, Bhutanese Minister Younten Phuntsho emphasised the importance of the summit as a platform for strengthening the collaboration between India and Bhutan. Addressing the audience, he said, "For Bhutan, this summit is an opportunity to further deepen our (India-Bhutan) collaboration and identify strategic areas where our shared aspirations align. There are several key areas where we can forge even stronger partnership - first is tourism, we invite investors to explore opportunities in wellness tou ...Read More >
Dimapur: In a landmark initiative to promote and preserve the rich handloom and handicraft tradition of Nagaland, chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the new state emporium complex in Kohima on Friday. The seven-storey facility will serve as a hub for Naga handloom, handicrafts, and cultural promotion of the state. Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge! Addressing the gathering, Rio emphasised the cultural and economic importance of the new facility, calling it a "beacon of identity and opportunity". He expressed appreciation for all those involv ...Read More >
New Delhi, Jun 26 (PTI) Indian team, headed by chief negotiator Rajesh Agarwal, has reached Washington for the next round of trade talks with his US counterparts, an official said on Thursday. The visit is important as both the countries are engaged in negotiations for an interim trade deal and are trying to finalise the pact before July 9, though there are challenges in areas like agriculture and dairy. "The Indian team is in Washington for two-day trade talks," the official said. Agrawal is special secretary in the department of commerce. The high tariffs, announced by the US on April 2, ...Read More >
NEW DELHI: India has imposed immediate restrictions on the import of jute and allied fibre products from Bangladesh, in a move reflecting growing tensions in bilateral trade relations. The new measures apply to all land and seaports across the country, with the sole exception of the Nhava Sheva seaport in Maharashtra, according to a notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The restrictions, however, will not apply to goods exported by Bangladesh to Nepal and Bhutan. At the same time, the re-export of such Bangladeshi goods from Nepal or Bhutan into India "will not be ...Read More >