Republic News India brings you an inspiring and insightful conversation with Manya Harsha, India’s celebrated Young EcoHero and Climate Warrior. At just 15 years old, Manya has become a beacon for youth-led climate action through her “Sunshine – Children for Change” campaign. On this special Children’s Day 2025, she shares her journey, challenges, and dreams for a greener India. This interview is a must-read for all young changemakers and environmental enthusiasts who want to make a difference.
Republic News India: Manya, it’s wonderful to have you with us on Children’s Day 2025. Can you tell us how your journey as a Young EcoHero began?
Manya Harsha: Thank you! My journey started when I was just four years old. I saw how our beautiful nature was being harmed by pollution and climate change. Inspired by my grandmother and the words of Swami Vivekananda, I realized every child can be a power for change. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to making the world greener, starting small and growing bigger.
Republic News India: You’re known as a Climate Warrior in India. What does that title mean to you personally?
Manya Harsha: Being a Climate Warrior means standing up for our planet every day. It’s about courage and responsibility. I believe anyone, no matter their age, can fight against climate change by taking simple steps that grow into big impacts. It’s about leading by example and motivating others to join the cause.
Republic News India: Your campaign “Sunshine – Children for Change” has inspired many. What inspired you to start this initiative?
Manya Harsha: “Sunshine” was born out of a vision to channelize the power of youth for climate action. I wanted children to understand that their actions matter. Through distributing saplings, sustainable bags, and organizing cleanups, we show that even small efforts can lead to a cleaner, healthier world. This campaign is about lighting a spark in every young heart.
Republic News India: What are some of the biggest achievements you’ve seen through your campaign so far?
Manya Harsha: We’ve distributed over 20,000 saplings and 25,000 sustainable bags, and planted more than 15,000 trees. We have thrown over 10,000 seed bombs to bring greenery to urban spaces. The cleanup drives have transformed water bodies and city roads. Seeing young people get involved and excited about the environment has been the biggest reward.
Republic News India: You are also the founder and editor of the Sunshine Fortnightly Environment Magazine. How does it help spread environmental awareness among youth?
Manya Harsha: The magazine is a platform for young voices. We share stories, tips, and ideas about sustainability that children and schools love. Over 2,000 copies have reached children’s homes and libraries, creating a wave of awareness. It’s exciting to see young readers get inspired and take action after reading it.
Republic News India: We heard about your innovative work on DIY vegetable paper and upcycling. How do these initiatives contribute to sustainability?
Manya Harsha: These green innovations show that waste can be transformed into useful products. Making paper from festival waste and vegetable scraps reduces landfill and pollution. Upcycling wrappers into pencils and seed paper pens promotes zero waste. These projects teach young people how creativity can help the environment every day.
Republic News India: You’ve won impressive awards, including the International Young Eco-Hero Award and the Water Hero Award. How do these recognitions motivate you?
Manya Harsha: Awards honor the hard work but also remind me of the huge responsibility we have. They inspire me to do more and reach more people. Each award tells me the message is spreading, and that encourages me to keep pushing for change and mobilizing youth as true Climate Warriors.
Republic News India: On Children’s Day 2025, what message do you want to give to young people across India?
Manya Harsha: My message is simple: Don’t wait for a superhero. Be one yourself. Every child has the power to protect our planet by making sustainable choices. Together, we can paint the world green and blue. Children and youth are the future—let’s lead the march for courage, leadership, and sustainability.
Republic News India: How can schools and communities best support young environmental activists like you?
Manya Harsha: Schools should include climate education as part of learning, and encourage students to participate in green initiatives. Communities can support by providing spaces for planting trees, organizing cleanups, and spreading awareness through workshops. It takes teamwork to make lasting change.
Republic News India: Finally, what are your hopes for India’s environmental movement in the coming years?
Manya Harsha: I hope we see even more children and youth stepping up as changemakers. I want India to be a leader in sustainability where every citizen — young or old — understands the importance of protecting the earth. With our collective power, we can build a cleaner, healthier future for everyone.
This Children’s Day 2025 exclusive interview with Manya Harsha highlights the journey of India’s Young EcoHero and Climate Warrior who leads by example. Her inspiring words remind us all that climate action starts with each of us and that the power of youth can transform India’s environmental future.
