Times Internet Ecopreneur Awards 2026: Introducing the jury driving India's green future

With the world awakening to the dire need for sustainability and environment awareness taking centre stage in shaping the future of business and innovation, the Times Internet Ecopreneur Awards 2026 emerges as a powerful platform recognising individuals and organisations that are redefining environmental responsibility. Designed to honour changemakers who seamlessly blend purpose with their work, the awards celebrate pioneers across sectors—from clean technology and renewable energy to beauty, design, and grassroots activism.At the heart of this prestigious initiative lies its distinguished jury—a panel of thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts whose collective experience ensures that only the most impactful and innovative sustainability efforts are recognised.A jury rooted in expertise and impactThe jury for the Ecopreneur Awards 2026 brings together some of India’s most respected voices in sustainability and climate action. Each member represents a unique perspective, spanning policy, entrepreneurship, design, and environmental advocacy. Rajneesh Sareen, Director of the Sustainable Habitat Programme at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE): With deep expertise in urban planning and climate-responsive design, Sareen has been instrumental in shaping conversations around sustainable cities and resource-efficient infrastructure. Dr. Blossom Kochhar, a pioneer in India’s clean beauty movement: With decades of experience in aromatherapy and wellness, she represents the growing intersection of sustainability and consumer industries, proving that eco-conscious practices can be both impactful and scalable. Bhupinder Bhalla, former Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy: His leadership in advancing India’s renewable energy agenda—including contributions to initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission—underscores the critical role of governance in accelerating climate action. Ritu Beri, celebrated designer and a global fashion icon who has played a pivotal role in taking Indian design to international platforms. She is known to advocate sustainable fashion by prioritizing eco-friendly fabrics like Khadi, supporting, and promoting conscious consumerism over fast fashion. She emphasizes reducing waste, using traditional Indian techniques, and reinterpreting heritage crafts, often showcasing these, along with pre-loved collections, in experiential spaces.The panel also includes Peepal Baba, founder of the Give Me Trees Trust, whose grassroots environmental work has led to the planting and preservation of millions of trees across India. His presence reflects the importance of community-driven sustainability movements.A rigorous and holistic evaluation processWhat sets the Ecopreneur Awards apart is its robust evaluation methodology. Each nomination is assessed across key parameters including sustainability impact, innovation, scalability, and business model strength. The jury also considers broader social and environmental contributions, ensuring that winners demonstrate both measurable results and long-term vision.This structured approach reflects the awards’ commitment to recognising initiatives that not only address today’s environmental challenges but also have the potential to scale and create lasting change.Celebrating the architects of a greener tomorrowAt a time when climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation are increasingly becoming serious global concerns, platforms like the Ecopreneur Awards play a vital role in amplifying solutions. By spotlighting leaders who are driving real impact, the initiative encourages innovation, inspires collaboration, and accelerates India’s transition towards a sustainable future.With such a formidable jury at the helm, the Ecopreneur Awards 2026 promises to be more than just an awards ceremony—it is a movement recognising those who dare to put the planet first.