Joseph G. M. Rebello is an environmental activist; an educator, trainer, motivator, social auditor, and a true servant of society.
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Ratnashree Joseph G. M. Rebello is a remarkable personality. His unwavering commitment to environmental conservation, water management, social accountability, and public awareness has made him a respected name across Karnataka. Through decades of dedicated service, he has shown that one determined individual can create lasting change. He works quietly, transforms communities and inspires generations. He never seek fame or recognition, but dedicated his life to serve people and protecting nature.
Joseph G. M. Rebello is an environmental activist; an educator, trainer, motivator, social auditor, and a true servant of society. He has devoted his entire life to promoting sustainable living, protecting natural resources, and encouraging citizens to become responsible custodians of the environment. His work reflects a rare combination of knowledge, practical experience, integrity, and compassion.
One of the most significant areas of Mr. Rebello’s contribution is water conservation. He strongly believes that water is life’s most precious resource and that every drop must be valued. Rainfall is uncertain everywhere in the world. Some years bring abundant rain, while others experience drought. Climate change has made weather patterns even more unpredictable. Understanding this reality, Mr. Rebello has continuously promoted rainwater harvesting as a practical and permanent solution for water security.
As he often demonstrates through his work, rain is not a regular phenomenon anywhere in the world, but efforts to harvest and conserve rainwater must be regular, continuous, and perpetual. This philosophy has become the foundation of his lifelong mission. While nature decides when it rains, human beings can decide how wisely they collect, store, and recharge every drop that falls. His consistent efforts have encouraged thousands of families, institutions, and government departments to adopt rainwater harvesting systems that benefit both present and future generations.
Mr. Rebello’s popular awareness programme, “Connecting with Rainwater – Cleanliness Begins at Home,” has reached people from different walks of life. Through this initiative, he teaches that environmental conservation starts with simple habits practiced within every household. He explains that maintaining clean surroundings, preventing water pollution, segregating waste, and harvesting rainwater are responsibilities that belong to every citizen. His training sessions are practical, easy to understand, and supported by real-life examples, enabling participants to implement these practices immediately.
His expertise extends beyond water conservation. As a State Resource Person and Trainer, he has shared his knowledge on groundwater conservation, rainwater harvesting, solid and liquid waste management, plastic waste management, sanitation, and environmental protection. His ability to simplify complex environmental issues has made him one of the most sought-after trainers in Karnataka. Government officials, engineers, elected representatives, teachers, students, self-help groups, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders have all benefited from his guidance.
Over the years, Mr. Rebello has conducted about 6,000 training programmes across all 31 districts of Karnataka, directly creating awareness among over 300,000 people. These numbers reflect not merely the scale of his work but also his relentless commitment to educating society. Every programme has inspired individuals to become active participants in protecting the environment rather than passive observers.
His contribution to cleanliness and sanitation is equally noteworthy. Serving as the Swachhata Ambassador of Udupi City Municipal Council, he has tirelessly promoted the principles of cleanliness and hygiene. He firmly believes that a clean environment is the foundation of a healthy society. Instead of limiting himself to speeches and awareness campaigns, he leads by example. Whether it is encouraging proper waste disposal, promoting source segregation, or educating communities about composting and recycling, he actively participates in every aspect of environmental cleanliness.
One quality that distinguishes Mr. Rebello is his courage to act. Many people notice littering but remain silent. Mr. Rebello does not. Whenever he sees people throwing garbage in public places, he politely but firmly stops them and explains their civic responsibility. His objective is never to embarrass anyone but to educate them and encourage behavioural change. Such actions have earned him immense respect as a fearless environmental advocate who practices what he teaches.
His concern for the environment is holistic. He understands that clean water, healthy soil, forests, fresh air, and proper waste management are interconnected. Protecting one without safeguarding the others is impossible. Therefore, his campaigns address every aspect of environmental sustainability. He consistently educates people about reducing plastic usage, managing biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste responsibly, conserving groundwater, planting trees, and protecting natural ecosystems. His vision extends beyond immediate environmental problems to securing a healthier planet for future generations.
Apart from environmental conservation, Mr. Rebello has made significant contributions to good governance and social accountability. Integrity and transparency form the cornerstone of his public service. As a Social Auditor for several Central and State Government schemes, he has played an important role in ensuring that public welfare programmes are implemented honestly and efficiently. His work involves carefully examining government projects, identifying irregularities, and recommending corrective measures. Whenever he discovered misuse of funds or procedural lapses, he fearlessly reported them without yielding to pressure or influence.
Such honesty requires courage because exposing irregularities is never easy. Yet Mr. Rebello has always placed public interest above personal convenience. His commitment to ethical governance has strengthened people’s trust in public institutions and demonstrated that accountability is essential for meaningful development.
His service extends to many sections of society, especially those who need support the most. He has actively worked for the welfare of senior citizens, women, children, construction workers, and sanitation workers. As an active member associated with the Udupi District Legal Services Authority and the Women and Child Protection Unit, he has participated in various programmes aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and promoting legal awareness. His compassionate approach reflects his belief that true development must include social justice, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.
Despite his impressive achievements, Mr. Rebello is widely admired for his humility. Those who have attended his training programmes often describe him as soft-spoken, approachable, and patient. He treats every participant with respect, whether they are senior government officials or school children. His simplicity allows people to connect with him easily, while his deep knowledge earns their admiration. He never imposes ideas but patiently explains why environmental responsibility benefits every individual and every family.
The impact of his work has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards. These honours celebrate not only his personal achievements but also the positive influence he has had on society. Among the many recognitions he has received are the Best Bharat Nirman Sevak Award (2014), Adhunik Bhagiratha Award (2015), Jalaratna Award (2016), Ratnashree Award (2017), District Karnataka Rajyotsava Award (2018), Seva Chaitanya Award (2019), Sadhana Shri Award (2021), Prakruthi Chetana Forest Department Award (2022), and the Bayalu Shikshana Prabhava Teacher Award (2022). Each award represents society’s appreciation for his tireless efforts in environmental protection and public service.
His achievements have also received widespread attention through Doordarshan, radio programmes, newspapers, and various educational publications. Educational institutions, government departments, civic organisations, and social service groups frequently invite him to deliver lectures and conduct workshops because of his practical knowledge and inspiring approach.
Mr. Rebello has also served as a member of several developmental committees under the Udupi Zilla Panchayat and as an evaluator for various government competitions. These responsibilities reflect the confidence that public institutions place in his expertise, fairness, and professional integrity.
Perhaps the greatest lesson from Joseph G. M. Rebello’s life is that environmental protection is not the responsibility of governments alone. Every individual has a role to play. Saving water, planting trees, keeping surroundings clean, reducing waste, protecting groundwater, and using natural resources responsibly are simple actions that collectively create a powerful impact. Through his life and work, he has shown that meaningful change begins with personal responsibility and spreads through education and collective participation.
In a world facing increasing environmental challenges, Mr. Rebello’s message is more relevant than ever. Climate change, water scarcity, pollution, and waste generation demand continuous action rather than occasional concern. His lifelong campaign reminds us that while rainfall cannot be controlled by human beings, our commitment to conserving every drop of water can and must remain constant. Rainwater harvesting is not merely a technical solution; it is a way of thinking that values nature and prepares society for the future.
Today, Ratnashree Joseph G. M. Rebello stands as a shining example of dedication, honesty, and selfless service. His work has enriched communities, strengthened environmental awareness, promoted good governance, and inspired countless people to become responsible citizens. His life demonstrates that true leadership is measured not by position or power but by the positive difference one makes in the lives of others.
It is indeed a privilege for any institution or organisation to have Ratnashree Joseph G. M. Rebello as a resource person and mentor. His wisdom, practical experience, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire people across Karnataka and beyond. His legacy reminds us that protecting nature is not a one-time effort but a lifelong responsibility. By following his example, every citizen can contribute towards building a cleaner, greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
