On October 2nd, 2024, a significant event was held at St. Aloysius ITI in Mangaluru to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti through the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ programme. This initiative was a collaborative effort between St. Aloysius ITI, Lions Club Mangalore, and Leo Club Mangalore St. Aloysius ITI.
The event commenced at 9:30 a.m., with Lion Jayaraj Prakash mjf, President of the Lions Club, serving as the programme’s President. The Chief Guest, Rev Fr John Dsouza SJ, Director of St. Aloysius ITI, emphasised the importance of cleanliness as a civic duty. Guests of Honour included Mr Roshan D’Souza, Principal; Mr Alwyn Menezes, Vice Principal; and Mr Noel Lobo, Training Officer, among others.
The proceedings began with a prayer, followed by a warm welcome from Leo Vice President Leo Akvil. The programme was inaugurated with a floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, symbolising respect for the leader’s ideals.
In his address, Rev Fr John Dsouza highlighted that ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ translates to “Cleanliness is Service.” He noted that this initiative aims to engage every citizen in the effort to promote a cleaner and healthier India through active community participation. The Chief Guest articulated that cleanliness drives are vital in raising awareness about sanitation and hygiene, urging every Indian to contribute to making public spaces cleaner.
These cleanliness campaigns inspire millions across India to participate in cleaning activities in parks, riversides, schools, and local communities, thereby fostering a culture of cleanliness. Additionally, they promote waste segregation at the source, encourage recycling, and work to reduce plastic usage. The initiative has also significantly advanced the construction of toilets in rural areas, addressing essential sanitation needs.
Lion Jayaraj Prakash mjf, in his presidential address, remarked that a clean environment reduces disease risk, improves sanitation, and enhances the aesthetic appeal of surroundings. He urged everyone to remember that even small actions can lead to significant changes, encouraging collective efforts towards building a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous India.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Lion Wilson N, the Leo Club Advisor, while Leo Vishal Dsouza, the Leo Club Treasurer, compered the programme. A pledge for cleanliness, led by Leo Jaison Paul, the Leo Club Secretary, was recited by all attendees, reinforcing their commitment to a cleaner, greener, and garbage-free India.
Following the formal programme, Leo Club members, along with students and staff, took to the streets to participate in a community cleaning drive. They focused on cleaning the areas from PVS Circle to Bunts Hostel Circle and Court Road, embodying the spirit of ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ in action.
This initiative not only honours the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi but also strengthens community ties while addressing pressing environmental concerns. The collaborative efforts of St. Aloysius ITI, Lions Club, and Leo Club demonstrate a commitment to making tangible improvements in the community’s cleanliness and health.