India, June 13 -- From a small tailor's shop in Hussainabad, Lucknow, to the global stage, Class 9 student of La Martiniere Girls' College, Aaliya Fatima Rizavi has captured international attention for her environmental initiative. As she prepares for the award ceremony in Washington D.C. (USA) this October, she reflects on her journey with humility: "I am thrilled to have won the challenge, but the process of this small innovation of mine is far more satisfying for me than the prize itself."

Her initiative, The Puppet Teaches the Planet, recently earned her a prestigious win at the 2026 National Geographic Slingshot Challenge. This achievement includes a $1,000 grant and an invitation to the award ceremony in the US.

Aaliya recalls her...