Media Release

Bantwal, Aug 30: A cleanliness drive was organized by the ICYM Farla Unit in collaboration with the Catholic Sabha Farla Commerce, Lay Faithful Commission, Social Development Commission, Environment Commission, and Labour Commission on Sunday, August 30.

The cleaning drive was conducted from Halagate Bus Stand to Manihalla Bus Stand, with approximately 50 members actively participating in the programme. Members of the local community, including rickshaw drivers and shop vendors from Manihalla, also joined hands in the initiative and contributed to the cleanliness drive.

Following the cleaning activity, director Fr Mark Arun D'Souza addressed the gathering and created awareness among the local residents and parishioners about the importance of maintaining cleanliness not only on the day of the drive but also in the days ahead. He emphasized the need to develop a lasting habit of keeping the surroundings clean and encouraged the community to adopt the concept of “Make Wealth from Waste” by properly managing and utilizing waste. He highlighted that responsible waste management and a clean environment are essential for protecting human lives and creating a healthier community.

PDO Robert Francis Fernandes also addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of taking personal responsibility for cleanliness. He encouraged everyone to begin the change at home and extend the same responsibility to their surroundings and public spaces. He called upon the people to make a personal commitment to keep their homes, neighbourhoods and public surroundings clean, emphasizing that the responsibility for a clean environment begins with each individual.

The programme witnessed the active participation of several commission leaders.

ICYM president- Kethan Rodrigues

Catholic Sabha president- Naveen Menezes

Labour Commission president-Alice Sequeira

Social Development Commission president- Roopa Moras

Environment Commission president Nevil D'Souza

Lay Faithful Commission president Joyce D'Souza were present and supported the initiative.

The active participation of local residents, rickshaw drivers, shop vendors, parishioners and youth made the cleanliness drive a successful community initiative, spreading the message that cleanliness is not merely a one-day activity but a collective responsibility that must be continued every day.