Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 2: St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Mangaluru, in association with Hasiru Dala, Sooji Malige, Lions Club Mangaluru and Leo Club, St Aloysius ITI, observed Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 with a programme promoting cleanliness, environmental responsibility and the reduce, reuse and recycle concept. As part of the initiative, 1,000 bags made from used cloth were distributed as an alternative to plastic bags.
The programme was presided over by director Fr John D’Souza, SJ, of St Aloysius ITI, Mangaluru. The chief guest was Pushparaj GS, president of the Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists Association, Mangaluru. Principal Roshan D’Souza, vice principal Alwyn Menezes, training officer Noel Lobo, Wilson N, Lion Hema Rao and Nagaraj Bajal were also present, along with representatives of the associated organisations, invited guests, staff members and students.
The programme began with a prayer song presented by Suhana and the team from the Sewing Technology trade, invoking God’s blessings for the successful conduct of the event. Dhananjay compered the programme.
Principal Roshan D’Souza, in his address, emphasised the importance of the principles of Reduce and Reuse. He encouraged students to adopt environmentally responsible habits, minimise unnecessary consumption and make greater use of reusable alternatives.
Pushparaj G S addressed the gathering on Gandhi Jayanti and Gandhiji’s vision. He highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of truth, non-violence, cleanliness, self-discipline, education, equality and responsible citizenship. He reminded the students that Gandhian ideals can be practised in daily life through responsible actions and service to society.
The dignitaries then offered a floral tribute to the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi as a mark of respect and remembrance. The gathering reflected on Gandhiji’s message of truth, peace, simplicity, cleanliness and service.
The chief guest subsequently spoke on the relevance of Gandhian values in the present day, placing particular emphasis on cleanliness, discipline, education, responsibility and environmental care. He encouraged the students to become responsible citizens and contribute positively to the community.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Neil. He expressed gratitude to the chief guest, director, principal, training officer, Wilson N., Lion Hema Rao and Nagaraj Bajal, as well as representatives of Hasiru Dala, Sooji Malige, Lions Club Mangaluru and Leo Club, St Aloysius ITI, the guests, staff members, students and everyone who contributed to the successful conduct of the celebration.
Awareness Procession and Distribution of Reusable Cloth Bags
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti observance, an awareness procession was organised from St Aloysius ITI towards Bunts Hostel, Mallikatte, in association with Hasiru Dala, Sooji Malige, Lions Club Mangaluru and Leo Club, St Aloysius ITI. The procession aimed to promote cleanliness, environmental awareness and responsible citizenship among the students and the wider community.
During the initiative, 1,000 handmade bags prepared from used cloth and sarees were distributed to the public as an alternative to plastic bags. The activity highlighted the importance of reducing the use of single-use plastic and reusing available materials creatively. It conveyed the message that small changes in everyday habits can contribute to a cleaner and greener society.
The Gandhi Jayanti celebration, awareness procession and cloth-bag distribution gave the students an opportunity not only to remember Mahatma Gandhi but also to put his principles into action. By combining remembrance, environmental awareness and community participation, the programme became a meaningful and purposeful celebration.