‘Greenman’ Viral Desai Wins National Energy Conservation Award for Third Straight Time

Surat | Gujarat — In an era marked by climate anxiety and rising energy demand, ‘Greenman’ Viral Sudhirbhai Desai has emerged as a rare example of sustained environmental leadership, winning the National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) for the third consecutive time. The prestigious honour was conferred at a grand ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, where President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu presented Desai with the coveted Golden Trophy.

This remarkable achievement makes it Desai’s sixth National Award overall, underscoring his long-standing commitment to energy efficiency, sustainability and green industrial practices. His Surat-based company Zenitex earned national recognition for implementing innovative and scalable energy conservation methods, successfully competing against some of India’s largest textile manufacturers.

Often referred to as the “Greenman”, Viral Desai has consistently demonstrated that environmental responsibility and industrial growth can go hand in hand. Industry experts point out that Zenitex’s energy-saving initiatives have not only reduced carbon emissions but have also improved operational efficiency—setting a benchmark for the textile sector nationwide.

“This award reaffirms that sustainability is no longer an option, but a responsibility,” said a senior official present at the ceremony. “Winning the Golden Trophy three times in a row is a testament to the consistency and seriousness of Mr. Desai’s efforts.”

Beyond industrial innovation, Desai’s contribution to environmental protection extends deep into the community. He has developed seven urban forests across Gujarat, transforming unused urban spaces into green lungs that support biodiversity, improve air quality and offer citizens much-needed ecological balance amid rapid urbanisation.

Expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, Viral Desai said the honour belongs to everyone committed to protecting the planet. “This award is not just for me or my company, but for every person dedicated to nature. Energy conservation is the need of the hour, and my resolve to protect the environment has only grown stronger,” Desai said.

“Such recognition motivates me to work even harder towards a clean and green future for the coming generations.”

Notably, Desai received the Golden Trophy earlier in 2019 and 2022, making the 2025 award his third consecutive win. This also marks the second time in a row that the honour has been presented to him by President Droupadi Murmu, further elevating the national stature of his achievement.

Desai’s success has brought pride not only to Surat, but to Gujarat as a whole, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a hub for sustainable innovation. As India pushes forward on its energy transition goals, leaders like Viral Desai stand out as proof that environmental stewardship and industrial excellence can—and must—move together.