Neeraja is a 16-year-old student from Millennium National School in Pune, India, and embodies a passion for her city, renowned as the cultural capital of the state and an IT hub of the nation. Active in her school’s Arts Club and Social Events Committee, Neeraja excels as an orator and event organizer, leveraging her extroverted nature to forge new connections and seize opportunities for growth and learning.

Her dream of contributing back to her country has fuelled her latest project, titled “Pravasi Bharat (Tourist of India),” which aims to address the adverse impacts of tourism on local communities and the environment. Observing first-hand the detrimental effects of tourism on popular destinations, Neeraja identified the need for sustainable practices to mitigate environmental degradation and preserve cultural heritage. With a focus on the ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’, and ‘Sustainable Cities and Communities’ SDGs, she plans to sensitize youth in her community to responsible tourism through educational seminars and awareness campaigns.

Neeraja’s project seeks to promote sustainable tourism practices among students, while also conducting impact analyses of government policies and advocating for regenerative tourism initiatives. By collaborating with local businesses, NGOs, and government agencies, she aims to create a network of stakeholders committed to promoting sustainable tourism in India.
By fostering partnerships and empowering local communities, Neeraja’s project aims to create a positive impact on both the environment and the economy. She hopes to reach a wide audience and inspire a collective shift towards responsible tourism, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

SDGs: 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth, 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities