Sumaira Abdulali, 2022-09-16

Sumaira Abdulali is a leading Indian environmental activist known for her fight against illegal sand mining and efforts to reduce noise pollution. Born in 1961, she founded the Awaaz Foundation in 2006 to address various environmental issues. Abdulali has been at the forefront of campaigns against illegal sand mining. Despite facing threats and physical attacks, she has persistently worked to raise awareness and influence policy changes.

Her activism extends to noise pollution, where she has successfully campaigned for stricter enforcement of noise regulations, particularly during festivals.

In recognition of her work, she has been awarded the Ashoka Fellowship in 2008, Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice in 2010 and Green Crusader of the Year at the International Advertising Association (IAA) Olive Crown Awards in 2015.