On 11 August 2026, the POP Movement joined hands with the Manav Rachna Centre for Peace & Sustainability (MRCPS), Manav Rachna University (MRU), and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – Young Indians for an engaging Capacity Building Workshop on E-Waste Management, Climate Change & POP Regional Festivals, bringing together students and young changemakers around a shared commitment to environmental action.

The workshop provided a platform for young participants to move beyond awareness and explore how they can translate ideas into practical initiatives. A key highlight was the presentation of POP Regional Festival plans by five registered student teams—EcoVibe Members, The Green Blueprint, Sustainable Life, Enviro Verse, and Elite Achievers. Each team presented its vision and proposed activities, demonstrating the creativity and enthusiasm of young people in addressing environmental challenges within their communities.

The workshop also addressed one of the rapidly growing environmental challenges of our time: electronic waste. Karishma Singhania from CII–Young Indians led a capacity-building session on e-waste management, helping participants understand the importance of responsible collection, handling, and disposal of electronic waste. The session was further strengthened through the announcement of an E-Waste Collection Competition, encouraging students to turn learning into measurable action.

A particularly meaningful segment, titled “Learning from the Legacy,” connected the workshop to the special August tribute to Late Dr. R.K. Pachauri. Komal Mittal of the POP Movement shared stories from Dr. Pachauri’s life and work, supported by video showcases, allowing young participants to reflect on his extraordinary contribution to climate science and environmental leadership. His journey served as a reminder that lasting change begins when knowledge is transformed into action and when young people are empowered to lead.

The program also included a hands-on activity session, providing participants with an opportunity to engage directly with the themes discussed and experience the spirit of environmental action.

The event featured opening and closing addresses by Ms. Meenal Rawat of Manav Rachna University, while Pranav Kumar Gahadwal of the POP Movement delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of youth leadership, climate action, and collective responsibility. The participating teams were subsequently felicitated in recognition of their enthusiasm and commitment.

The workshop reflected the essence of Dr. R.K. Pachauri’s legacy: creating knowledge, empowering young minds, and turning concern for the planet into meaningful action. Through collaboration among educational institutions, industry, and youth-led organizations, the event demonstrated how partnerships can create stronger pathways for young people to become environmental leaders.

As the POP Regional Festival journey continues, the participating students carry forward not only their festival plans, but also a larger responsibility to learn from the past, act in the present, and build a more sustainable future.