In a landmark recognition of grassroots environmental leadership, Deepak Vishwakarma, the visionary Founder and President of Making The Difference – NGO, has been conferred with the Times Now Amazing Indians Award 2025 in the Environment & Sustainability category. The award applauds his unwavering commitment to environmental preservation, community-driven green initiatives, and sustainable development across India.
The award ceremony, hosted by Times Network and presented by Adani, took place in the capital amidst a gathering of national leaders, thought pioneers, and changemakers. The event was graced by Shri Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Minister of Labour & Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports. A distinguished jury comprising renowned personalities such as Neerja Birla, Padmaja Ruparel, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Prasoon Joshi, and Ashishkumar Chauhan selected the 13 awardees from across the country for their exemplary work in nation-building and social transformation.
A Green Crusader for Modern India
Widely known as “The Oxygen Man,” Deepak Vishwakarma has emerged as a beacon of hope in India’s fight against environmental degradation and climate change. Through his non-profit organization Making The Difference, he has led a spectrum of impactful initiatives that have transformed landscapes and mindsets alike.
Under his leadership, the NGO has planted over 65,000 saplings across the states of Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. One of the standout strategies employed by the organization is the Miyawaki method—a Japanese technique for creating dense, native forests in urban areas. These mini-forests not only enhance biodiversity but also act as carbon sinks and temperature regulators in urban ecosystems.
Beyond afforestation, Deepak’s mission includes large-scale waste management programs, coastal and urban clean-up drives, CSR-led environmental partnerships, and grassroots awareness campaigns that engage schools, colleges, RWAs, and corporates. His inclusive and action-oriented approach has mobilized thousands of volunteers, inspired corporate environmental responsibility, and cultivated a culture of eco-consciousness in communities nationwide.
A Recognition of Collective Impact
Speaking on the occasion of receiving the Times Now Amazing Indians Award, Deepak Vishwakarma humbly attributed the honour to the collective effort of his community:
“This award belongs to every volunteer, partner, and community member who joined hands to make our planet greener. Being called the Oxygen Man is an honour, but the real victory will be when every citizen takes up the responsibility to protect our environment.”
Deepak’s humility and vision resonate with India’s growing youth and green movement. His work exemplifies how passion, purpose, and persistence can drive real change—from the ground up.
Making The Difference: A Model for Sustainability
Founded with the goal of “People. Planet. Purpose,” Making The Difference – NGO has emerged as a model for scalable and sustainable environmental interventions. The organization has not only focused on planting trees but has embedded sustainability into education, lifestyle, and corporate culture.
Some of the NGO’s landmark achievements include:
- Establishing urban Miyawaki forests in collaboration with municipal bodies and private firms
- Implementing waste segregation and recycling programs in housing societies and public areas
- Conducting beach clean-up campaigns across Mumbai and coastal Andhra Pradesh
- Partnering with corporates for green CSR projects aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Hosting awareness drives, environmental education programs, and sustainability workshops for schools and colleges
By bridging grassroots action with policy awareness, the NGO ensures long-term environmental stewardship rather than just short-term impact.
National Recognition of Unsung Heroes
The Times Now Amazing Indians Awards have long served as a platform to celebrate real-life heroes who are quietly transforming India. This year’s edition honoured 13 changemakers across sectors—ranging from education and healthcare to innovation and sustainability.
Speaking at the event, the organisers emphasized the importance of recognising such efforts in today’s climate-challenged world. “India’s true strength lies in its people. Individuals like Deepak Vishwakarma show us that one person’s commitment can inspire thousands and create meaningful impact,” said a Times Network spokesperson. Please Visit for More Information : https://mtdngo.com/
