Dr. Urvashi Mittal: Championing Change with Steel Flasks

Dr. Urvashi Mittal, known as the 'Flask Lady,' received the Inspiring Leaders Award 2025 for her campaigns against plastic pollution. She emphasizes environmental conservation, empowerment, and sustainable practices. Recognized for numerous awards, her efforts inspire national unity and value-based education, driving societal paradigm shifts and sustainable growth.

Dr. Urvashi Mittal, who has earned the affectionate moniker 'Flask Lady,' was celebrated with the Inspiring Leaders Award 2025 in the Social Worker category for her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation through the 'Water to Save' and 'No to Plastic Bottle' initiatives. The award was ceremoniously presented by cricket icon Harbhajan Singh at the Times Applaud event hosted at Mumbai's Hotel Ginger on August 23, 2025. Dr. Mittal, upon receiving the accolade, articulated that such honors energize her efforts in the environmental crusade, spotlighting the impactful yet straightforward practice of using steel flasks to curb the demand for plastic bottles.

Addressing environmental concerns, Dr. Mittal voiced apprehensions over the rapid environmental degradation caused by unsustainable resource exploitation, plastic pollution, and soil erosion. She advocated for individual responsibility in safeguarding the environment via adopting sustainability measures such as carrying steel flasks, engaging in tree plantation drives, and making mindful fashion choices.

Within the Inner Wheel sphere, Dr. Mittal praised the organization's pivotal role in endorsing women's empowerment, camaraderie, and ecological conservation, urging concerted efforts towards common environmental and economic goals. She illuminated recycling initiatives involving plastic, old clothes, and e-waste as potential avenues for financial empowerment.

The recognition bestowed upon Dr. Mittal underscores her relentless pursuit of a sustainable future, serving as a beacon of inspiration for others in the struggle against environmental deterioration. She champions collective, cohesive action and broad-minded education for youngsters as integral to India's ascent as a global leader, advocating for respect across professions to elevate societal and economic standards.

Dr. Mittal stresses a societal shift from the conventional pursuit of government jobs towards embracing various career paths, fostering an inclusive narrative of national development that counters unemployment amidst growing demographic pressures. Her illustrious career, though academically steeped in business and finance education from BITS Pilani, finds its true calling in social initiatives as she currently serves as the Honorary Association Secretary of Inner Wheel, India.

Her contributions have garnered numerous accolades, including the Atal Samman and recognition as the 'Best Woman Social Icon.' A vigorous advocate for the Triple Rs – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle – her initiatives place an enduring emphasis on the use of steel flasks over plastic bottles, marking her steadfast commitment to environmental advocacy. Dr. Mittal also actively engages with the media, often featuring on prominent channels like Aaj Tak and CNBC.

(With inputs from agencies.)