Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Jul 6: As part of ‘Swachhata Pakhwada 2026’, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), in association with Ramakrishna Mission, organised a large-scale cleanliness drive at Kadri Park on Monday, July 6. The event highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility, community participation, and the vision of a cleaner India.
The programme was graced by union minister of state for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi as the chief guest. Among the distinguished guests were MP Brijesh Chowta, MLA D Vedavyas Kamath, Swami Jitakamanandaji Maharaj, senior monk and head of Ramakrishna Mission, Mangaluru, MRPL managing director Mundkur Shyamprasad Kamath, and director (Refinery) Nandakumar V Pillai.
Delivering the keynote address, union minister Suresh Gopi said that the Swachh Bharat Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, was aimed not only at creating a cleaner India but also at making the country one of the cleanest nations in the world. He said the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has taken a leading role in implementing the mission through the 15-day Swachhata Pakhwada campaign across the country.
The minister noted that while he would be visiting several states during the campaign, union minister Hardeep Singh Puri and other officials would lead similar initiatives across the remaining states and union territories. Stressing the importance of cleanliness, he said, "A clean street, a clean public place, a clean workplace, and a clean city create confidence, earn respect, and reflect our responsibility towards future generations."
Addressing the gathering, MP Brijesh Chowta praised the Swachh Mangaluru campaign, jointly initiated by Ramakrishna Mission, MRPL, and NITK Surathkal. He said the initiative has played a vital role in transforming Mangaluru into one of the cleanest cities in India. He appreciated the organisations for making cleanliness a way of life and emphasised that the campaign reflects the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the theme 'Swachhata Hi Seva' (Cleanliness is Service).
A major highlight of the event was the Swachhata Pledge (Cleanliness Oath), during which all participants collectively pledged to keep their surroundings clean and actively contribute towards building a cleaner and healthier India.
The dignitaries also participated in a tree plantation drive by planting saplings in the names of their mothers as a heartfelt tribute to motherhood and a symbolic commitment to protecting nature. They later joined volunteers, students and officials in a hands-on cleanliness drive, reinforcing the message that every citizen has a role in maintaining a clean environment.
The event was attended by senior officials from the district administration, representatives of Ramakrishna Mission, MRPL executives and employees, volunteers, students of Kavoor Government Pre-University College, and members of the public. Their enthusiastic participation reflected the collective commitment of the community towards promoting cleanliness, environmental conservation, and the vision of a Swachh Bharat.
The programme concluded with a strong message that cleanliness is not just a campaign but a continuous public movement requiring the active participation of every individual. The event reflected the spirit of teamwork and community service, inspiring citizens to contribute towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable India.