‘The Oxygen Man’ Honoured for Outstanding Environmental Impact Across India

In a remarkable testament to grassroots environmental action and leadership, Deepak Vishwakarma, the Founder and President of Making The Difference – NGO, has been conferred with the Times Now Amazing Indians Award 2025 in the Environment & Sustainability category. Recognised for his tireless efforts in environmental conservation and community-driven sustainability initiatives, Vishwakarma’s honour marks a significant milestone in India’s green journey.

The prestigious ceremony, organised by Times Network and presented by Adani, celebrated 13 outstanding changemakers whose work has made transformative impacts across different sectors. The event was graced by Shri Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Minister of Labour & Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, and attended by an eminent jury comprising Neerja Birla, Padmaja Ruparel, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Prasoon Joshi, and Ashishkumar Chauhan. Each winner was selected after a rigorous evaluation of their contributions toward nation-building and societal development.

Known affectionately as “The Oxygen Man”, Deepak Vishwakarma has emerged as a symbol of environmental activism and resilience. His NGO, Making The Difference, has planted over 65,000 saplings across key states including Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Furthermore, the organisation has developed thousands of square meters of dense green cover using the Miyawaki afforestation technique, a method known for creating fast-growing, self-sustaining native forests in urban spaces.

Deepak’s work extends far beyond plantation drives. Under his leadership, Making The Difference has launched comprehensive waste management initiatives, conducted regular beach clean-up operations, and spearheaded eco-awareness campaigns to instil environmentally responsible habits among citizens. His team has also worked closely with corporates through CSR collaborations, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into business practices and urban development.

Speaking after receiving the award, Deepak Vishwakarma humbly dedicated the honour to the countless individuals who have contributed to the cause.

“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,” he said.

From restoring degraded landscapes to mobilising urban youth for environmental action, Vishwakarma’s journey is one of purpose, perseverance, and people-powered change. What began as a local effort to improve green cover has evolved into a nationwide movement that not only addresses ecological challenges but also empowers communities through education and active participation.

One of the highlights of his environmental strategy has been the adoption of the Miyawaki method, which allows for dense, fast-growing forests that can flourish in small urban plots. These micro-forests are critical in improving air quality, reducing urban heat, and creating biodiversity hotspots within cities.

Additionally, the NGO has significantly impacted urban waste systems through large-scale segregation, recycling, and awareness programs. In a time when Indian cities are grappling with mounting waste issues, Vishwakarma’s approach blends technological solutions with community engagement, creating sustainable, replicable models of waste management.

Over the years, Making The Difference has partnered with schools, colleges, local governments, and private enterprises, ensuring that environmental restoration becomes a collective mission rather than an isolated endeavour. Their volunteer base has grown significantly, with young changemakers, professionals, and retired citizens alike finding ways to contribute meaningfully to the environment.

Industry leaders and environmental experts alike have lauded Vishwakarma’s practical, scalable, and inclusive approach to sustainability. His philosophy rests on the belief that every individual has a role to play, and it is only through shared responsibility that we can hope to reverse environmental degradation.

The Times Now Amazing Indians Award not only celebrates Vishwakarma’s achievements but also shines a spotlight on the urgency of environmental action. It is a recognition that honours not just past accomplishments but the ongoing commitment to building a greener, healthier, and more sustainable India.

As environmental concerns take centre stage in public discourse, leaders like Deepak Vishwakarma provide hope and direction. His story serves as a reminder that impactful change often starts at the grassroots and that with dedication and collective will, it is possible to make the difference—for today and for generations to come. Please Visit for More Information : https://mtdngo.com/