Paytm Founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma Interested in Funding Dog Food Dispensers Inspired by Istanbul
Vijay Shekhar Sharma: CEO at Paytm
Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma has expressed a keen interest in funding a project that replicates a dog food dispenser initiative from Istanbul. This innovative vending machine offers food and water for stray dogs in exchange for recycled plastic bottles.
Sharma recently shared his enthusiasm on X, stating, “Istanbul has a vending machine that provides food and water for stray dogs in exchange for recycled plastic bottles. What a wonderful idea,” adding, “I would love to fund this and am looking for a champion of change.”
The project, launched in 2014 by animal lover Engin Girgin and the Turkish company Pugedon, features a dispenser that also functions as a recycling machine. It includes three openings: one for plastic bottles or cans, another for liquids, and a third for dog food. When recyclable bottles or cans are deposited, a portion of dog food is dispensed into a bowl. Any remaining liquid is collected separately.
Girgin explained, “A sensor detects if the bottles or cans are recyclable. If they are, dog food is released into the bowl. Any leftover liquid can be poured into a separate opening.”
Social Media Reaction:
Online users have responded positively to Sharma’s post.
One user commented, “Lovely project—I’m in!”
Another wrote, “Where can I contact you? I’m ready to roll this out nationwide.”
A third user said, “I love this idea, but won’t people try to exploit it? Security measures might be needed.”
A fourth added, “It’s amazing how recycling can have such a big impact on animals’ lives. Imagine if every city adopted this approach—what a difference we could make!”