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Competition

Samasya Khoj


Identify Problems. Inspire Innovation.
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Problem ID: 1000581
🧠 Problem Title: The Invisible Intake of Microplastic
📝 Problem Description

Microplastics (particles < 5 mm) have now been detected in Indian tap water, groundwater in Delhi, and even bottled water.Studies in 2026 show that urban Indians may ingest approximately 5 to 7 grams of plastic annually roughly the weight of a credit card. In India, this comes from untreated sewage, the breakdown of mismanaged plastic waste (secondary microplastics), and synthetic fibers from washing clothes (nylon/polyester)., Microplastics are chemical sponges. They soak up heavy metals and pesticides from polluted Indian rivers and carry them into the human body. They have recently been found in human blood, lungs, and even placentas. Microplastic contamination in salt pans and fisheries threatens Indias "Blue Economy" and food exports, potentially costing billions in trade bans.Currently, we need million-dollar lab equipment (like Raman Spectroscopy) to find microplastics. There is no low-cost, portable way for a regular person to test if their glass of water is contaminated.Filtration is limited, standard mesh filters arent small enough. While RO (Reverse Osmosis) works, it is expensive and wastes a lot of water. We need a "green" or "low-energy" way to trap these tiny fibers

⚡ Impact
Hundreds and more
🌍 Impact Area
Universal
📊 Scope
National
📌 Place
Universal
⏱ Occurrence
Frequently
⚠ Life Risk
Yes
💰 Financial Loss
Lakhs or more

👤 Name
Deergha Gupta
🎓 Class
11
📍 State
Madhya Pradesh