Punjab is rethinking its traditional paddy-wheat farming model to tackle depleting groundwater, soil degradation, and low farmer incomes. The state is promoting crop diversification—encouraging maize, pulses, and horticulture—as a path to sustainable agriculture. The article highlights the growing importance of land leasing, which allows small and marginal farmers to pool or lease land for more efficient use and investment in modern techniques. Experts emphasize the need for policy support, infrastructure, and assured markets to make diversification viable. Overall, Punjab’s focus on sustainability and flexible land use aims to secure both environmental balance and rural livelihoods.

The growing urgency to adopt eco-friendly tourism practices in Himachal Pradesh as climate change intensifies environmental stress in the Himalayas. Experts warn that unregulated tourism, deforestation, and infrastructure expansion are exacerbating landslides, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. They emphasise that sustainable tourism—through waste management, green infrastructure, community participation, and visitor education—is essential to balance economic growth with ecological preservation. The article calls for stronger policies, responsible tourist behaviour, and collaboration between the government and local communities to ensure that Himachal’s fragile mountain ecosystems remain resilient and viable for future generations.

Rural and small-town India is setting inspiring examples of eco-conscious living. Villages like Majuli (Assam), Khonoma (Nagaland), Mawlynnong (Meghalaya), and Piplantri (Rajasthan) showcase community-led efforts in banning plastic, conserving forests, tree-planting, and maintaining exceptional cleanliness. From bamboo homes in flood-prone Majuli to tree plantations for every girl born in Piplantri, these places prove sustainability thrives through local action, cultural pride, and collective responsibility. Together, they demonstrate that India’s green future can grow from its smallest communities through mindful, everyday practices that protect both people and the planet.

Gold recycling is becoming a key driver of sustainability, reducing the need for environmentally damaging mining while cutting carbon emissions and conserving resources. With global demand for gold rising—particularly in India—recycled gold offers a cleaner, more efficient alternative, lowering energy use by up to 99% compared to traditional extraction. The piece highlights how improved collection systems, formalised recycling networks, and growing consumer awareness can strengthen circularity in the gold supply chain, making the industry more resilient and environmentally responsible.