Indore’s Janak Palta McGilligan: A 74-year-old trailblazer in sustainable living

Janak Palta McGilligan, a 74-year-old Padma Shri recipient, has transformed her home in Sanawadia, near Indore, into a fully sustainable haven, generating zero electricity bills. Her home is powered by windmills and solar energy, showcasing her dedication to eco-friendly living.

A social activist and founder of the Jimmy McGilligan Centre for Sustainable Development, Janak has trained over 1.5 lakh youths and 6,000 rural women in solar cooking and sustainable practices. Her zero-waste household is a testament to her innovative approach, featuring organic farming, rainwater harvesting, and waste management.

Janak’s journey began after her open-heart surgery at 17, which sparked her passion for environmental conservation. She attended the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio De Janeiro, further fueling her commitment. Her work has been recognized with the Padma Shri award in 2015.