'I can afford...but nature cannot': IIT-professor seen with torn socks
What's the story
Chetan Singh Solanki, a professor at IIT Bombay, has responded after a photo of him wearing torn socks at a five-star hotel went viral.
The image was clicked at the Hyatt in Delhi before he delivered a talk at The Economic Times Energy Leadership Summit on September 25.
In a LinkedIn post, Solanki wrote, "Yes, my torn socks were exposed! I need to replace them...but nature cannot."
"In nature, everything is finite," he added.
Environmental advocacy
Solanki's commitment to reducing carbon footprint
Known as the "Solar Man of India" or "Solar Gandhi," Solanki has been teaching at IIT Bombay for over two decades.
In his LinkedIn post, he wrote that he is committed to minimizing his carbon footprint and raising awareness about environmental degradation.
He compared his method to a businessman looking for the best returns, adding that as a social worker, he aims "to maximize the impact of my time, creating the greatest possible change."
Sustainable living
Solanki's approach to material usage and productivity
This philosophy is consistent with his vision of "Energy Swaraj," which encourages energy independence through localized solar solutions.
Solanki has spent many years creating solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies and products, providing solar energy training programs, and conducting large-scale projects, particularly in the off-grid sector.
In acknowledgment of his contributions, the Madhya Pradesh government appointed him Brand Ambassador of Solar Energy.
He has traveled more than 43,000km across 20 Indian states to promote solar energy adoption.