Swarna Group MD Champions Anti-Plastic Movement in Dharwad
A significant environmental initiative titled "Let's Stop Asking for OTP (One Time Plastic)" was officially launched on February 25 at Ambedkar Bhavan on Sanmati Marg in Dharwad. The campaign, spearheaded by the non-governmental organization Possible Together, aims to combat plastic pollution through community engagement and education.
Inauguration and Key Participants
The program was inaugurated under the leadership of Chigurupati VSV Prasad, the Managing Director of the Swarna Group of Companies. The event commenced with a symbolic gesture: the distribution of paper bags to local shopkeepers, marking a shift away from single-use plastic covers. This act set the tone for the broader mission to promote sustainable alternatives.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Prasad emphasized that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility. He highlighted the severe consequences of environmental neglect, such as landslides and floods, and called on students to actively participate in eliminating plastic use. "Students are the future citizens of the nation. If they take a pledge to eradicate the plastic menace, success is certain," he stated, noting global efforts to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Labour Minister Santosh S Lad, who attended as the chief guest, praised the initiative for involving children in creating and distributing paper bags. He commended the hands-on approach to fostering civic awareness and reducing plastic dependency.
Mission Goals and Organizational Efforts
Vijayalakshmi Perry, founder and president of Possible Together, outlined the campaign's objectives. The mission seeks to create a people's movement to make Hubballi-Dharwad plastic-free and drive lasting transformation in civic habits. Perry's leadership has been instrumental in mobilizing community support and organizing awareness activities.
As part of the campaign, Possible Together organized a paper bag-making competition across Hubballi-Dharwad, resulting in the collection of over one lakh paper bags from students. Various other competitions were held to educate children and parents about the harmful effects of plastic usage, reinforcing the message through interactive means.
Awards and Recognitions
The event also featured the distribution of awards to recognize outstanding contributions. JSS Manjunatheshwara State English Medium School secured the first prize among participating institutions. Mementoes were distributed to winning schools and teachers to acknowledge their efforts in promoting environmental stewardship.
In a highlight of the ceremony, Ritwika Karigar, a Class IV student from JSS Manjunatheshwara State English Medium School, won the bumper prize. CVSV Prasad personally presented her with a bicycle as a token of appreciation for her achievement in the competitions.
Other prize winners who received wristwatches included:
- Jia Madhurkar of Aryan School
- Ankita of JSS Murughamath School
- Prisha Pawar of JSS State Syllabus Vidyagiri School
- Shreya Shirasangi of Smt. Vimala Kulkarni Memorial School
Broader Impact and Community Involvement
The launch event saw participation from various dignitaries and community leaders, including DDPI SS Keladimath, Ravi Guttal (CTO of AXIS Company), and Prof. MR Patil of KLE Technological University. Their presence underscored the cross-sectoral support for the anti-plastic drive, highlighting its importance in fostering sustainable development.
This initiative not only raises awareness but also encourages practical actions, such as using paper bags and reducing plastic consumption. By involving students, shopkeepers, and local authorities, the campaign aims to build a resilient and eco-conscious community in Dharwad and beyond.
