Google Startups India head Ragini Das says ‘get out of Delhi’
The startup ecosystem in India has been booming in recent years, with numerous entrepreneurs and innovators flocking to major cities like Delhi to turn their ideas into reality. However, the harsh reality of Delhi’s worsening pollution has become a major concern for many, including Ragini Das, the India Head of Google for Startups. In a recent LinkedIn post, Das sparked a debate by commenting “get out of Delhi” in response to a discussion about brain fog and burnout. Her remark has amplified fears about the impact of Delhi’s toxic smog on the health and well-being of startup founders and their teams.
Das’s comment was in response to a post about the physical and mental toll of brain fog and burnout, which is a common phenomenon among startup founders and entrepreneurs who often work long hours and neglect their health. However, the context of the post was specifically about the air pollution in Delhi, which has become a major concern in recent years. The city’s poor air quality has been linked to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and even cognitive impairment.
The fact that Das, a prominent figure in the Indian startup ecosystem, is advising people to “get out of Delhi” is a testament to the severity of the problem. It’s not just a matter of personal health and well-being; the pollution in Delhi is also affecting the productivity and efficiency of startup founders and their teams. When people are struggling to breathe and think clearly, it’s impossible to expect them to perform at their best.
Das’s remark has been echoed by other prominent figures in the startup ecosystem, including YourStory founder Shradha Sharma. In a recent post, Sharma expressed her concerns about feeling unwell in Delhi’s toxic smog, citing the city’s poor air quality as a major reason for her health issues. Her experience is not unique; many people who live and work in Delhi have reported similar health problems, from mild respiratory issues to more severe conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The impact of Delhi’s pollution on the startup ecosystem cannot be overstated. When startup founders and their teams are struggling to stay healthy, it’s impossible to expect them to innovate and grow their businesses. The pollution in Delhi is not just a personal health issue; it’s also a major economic concern. According to a recent report, the economic cost of air pollution in India is estimated to be around $150 billion, which is approximately 8% of the country’s GDP.
So, what can be done to address this issue? Firstly, the government needs to take immediate action to reduce pollution levels in Delhi. This can be done by implementing stricter emission norms, increasing the use of renewable energy sources, and promoting the use of electric vehicles. Additionally, the government can also invest in green infrastructure, such as parks and green roofs, to help absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
Secondly, startup founders and entrepreneurs need to take responsibility for their own health and well-being. This means taking steps to reduce their exposure to pollution, such as wearing masks, using air purifiers, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. It also means prioritizing health and wellness, by taking regular breaks, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet.
Finally, the startup ecosystem as a whole needs to come together to raise awareness about the issue of pollution in Delhi. This can be done by organizing events, workshops, and conferences that highlight the impact of pollution on health and productivity. It can also be done by promoting sustainable practices and green technologies that can help reduce pollution levels in the city.
In conclusion, Ragini Das’s comment “get out of Delhi” is a wake-up call for the startup ecosystem in India. It’s a reminder that the pollution in Delhi is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. By working together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable environment for startup founders and entrepreneurs to thrive. As Das herself said, “the health and well-being of our founders and teams is paramount, and we need to take action to protect it.”
Source: https://ascendants.in/spotlight/ragini-das-india-head-google-for-startups-get-out-of-delhi/
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