India, Jan. 8 -- Why citizen action and NGOs matter now more than ever

By Bhamy V. Shenoy and Ashvini Ranjan

As a new year begins, it is an appropriate moment for Mysureans to pause and reflect - not only on personal goals, but on the future of the city we call home.

The question before us is simple yet profound: who will protect Mysuru if its own citizens do not step forward?

A visit to India's major heritage and tourist cities such as Udaipur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Gwalior and Indore reveals an uncomfortable truth. Despite their grandeur, many of these cities struggle with congestion, pollution and unplanned growth. By comparison, Mysuru stands out as cleaner, greener and more livable.for now.

This livability of Mysuru is thanks large...