Manipur woman transforms discarded items into eco-friendly creations in Jammu and Kashmir

Gayabati Devi, a resident of Manipur, has been turning discarded materials into functional items and barren land into a flourishing park and botanical garden at the CRPF 84 Battalion campus in Ramban over the past two years. Her husband, Commandant N. Ranbir Singh, posted at the campus, fully supports her unique initiative.

Speaking about her efforts, Devi said, “I modify waste materials that people discard after one use and give them a new purpose. I use cans, empty liquor bottles, disposable glasses, jute ropes, cartons, and other materials to create useful items. I am a housewife and enjoy keeping myself busy. My goal is not to earn from this work but to ensure that waste does not harm the environment.”

She further added, “I also love nature and animals. I prepare food for animals and personally feed them. Additionally, I train people free of cost to create useful items from waste.”

Devi’s contributions extend to the cultural sphere as well. On Rakshabandhan this year, she crafted self-made Rakhis and tied them to about 300 officers in the CRPF campus, spreading both creativity and goodwill. Her dedication has turned previously barren areas of the campus into a vibrant green space, making a notable environmental impact in the region.