Odisha-born London-based entrepreneur and former Indian Army Captain Arun Kar (retired) and his wife, Nidhi Kar, were felicitated at the UN headquarters, New York, recently for advancing health, sanitation, gender equality, social inclusion, environmental responsibility and global partnerships in support of UN sustainable development goals. They spoke to Arunika Mohapatra about their work Why did you decide to take up these humanitarian programmes?Arun: During the 1999 super cyclone, I saw homes disappear, livelihoods collapse, and yet people rebuilt their lives with dignity. That early exposure to resilience shaped me deeply, but the foundation was laid at home by my parents. Later, as an officer in the Indian Army, I learned that service is not situational, but a lifelong commitment.Nidhi: I supported these causes because compassion and community responsibility have always been central to my upbringing. I feel that if you have the ability to help, you have the responsibility to act. How did you implement these programmes and when?Each initiative was implemented through a combination of personal oversight, diaspora coordination, and strong on-ground partnerships. The sanitation and menstrual initiative in Nabarangpur district started in 2025 and is currently on. It is being implemented with the help of the district administration, local representatives and a social activist. We financed the construction of a secure, roofed sanitation facility. We also provided sanitary pads to 38 girls for three months. Tell us about your support for air pistol shooter Satabdi Dash…We have supported her in the UK since 2025 through direct financial help during critical training and competition phases, mentorship conversations focused on discipline, mental resilience and long-term planning, and encouragement through diaspora networks to strengthen psychological confidence. Odia community in UK organises many cultural programmes. How was yours different?By reclaiming maritime memory on a global stage — Global South Maritime Heritage Summit & Bali Jatra UK (2025). Heritage is powerful — but only when it evolves. It was not only about celebrating heritage but about repositioning heritage as a reminder that Odisha once led global trade routes, maritime diplomacy and cross-border exchange. How are you reducing plastic pollution?We set up Earthnest as a business, but it was not only for financial gain. We developed 100% plastic-free, biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastic bags that were made from natural, non-toxic materials, fully biodegradable and compostable, waterproof and oil-resistant, designed to dissolve safely in hot water (around 80°C) and leave zero microplastic residue. How can Odisha become globally relevant?Historically, Odisha was globally connected through maritime trade. Today, it can become globally relevant through green manufacturing. It can build biodegradable manufacturing clusters, offer tax incentives or subsidies for eco-friendly product development. Odisha can supply not only in the country, but also to Europe. This is where heritage meets the future.
