Swachhata Campaign “My Bharat, My Diwali” Transforms Gopal Gan Market Area in Balasore, Led by NSS Volunteers

Balasore: (Reported by Sanatan Mahakud):  In a vibrant effort to mark a cleaner and greener Diwali, the National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers of Balasore District spearheaded a major cleanliness drive under the “My Bharat, My Diwali” campaign at Gopal Gan Market Area, Balasore. The initiative brought together influential local leaders, community members, and youth volunteers, aiming to inspire a culture of cleanliness and responsibility toward public spaces. 

Chief Guests Rally for Cleanliness 

The event was graced by Mr. Manas Ku. Dutta, MLA of Sadar, Balasore, who attended as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the importance of community participation in maintaining a clean environment. Mrs. Sabita Sahu, Chairperson of Balasore Municipality, and Mr. Srustidhar Parida, Secretary & Chief Editor of Dhwani Pratidhvani, attended as Guests of Honour, lending their support to the campaign and encouraging the efforts of NSS volunteers. Their presence uplifted the morale of the volunteers and underscored the importance of sustaining cleanliness beyond festival seasons. 

Organizing Team & Key Contributions 

The campaign was a collaborative effort organized by NSS and the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Balasore Chapter, in association with the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Balasore. Mr. Ambuja Lochan Das and Dr. Lekharani Das were instrumental in guiding the event, alongside Mr. Anupam Pradhan, Programme Officer of NSS, and Mr. Gajendra Panda, Principal of BITS Balasore. Their leadership, paired with the coordination by Dr. Chittaranjan Sahu and Mr. Jyotiprakash Acharya of CAIT, Balasore, ensured smooth execution of the program under the expert supervision of Mr. Gouranga Panda, District Programme Officer of Balasore. 
Additional support came from Mr. Bhagwan Gupta, President of CAIT Balasore Chapter, and Mr. Tapas Ku. Patra, Office Assistant of NSS Bureau at FMU, Balasore, whose organizational efforts helped streamline the activities. Mr. Bighnesh, DYO I/c of NYKS Balasore, also played a crucial role in mobilizing resources and participants to ensure the campaign’s success. 

Inspiring Local Participation for a Cleaner Future 

The “My Bharat, My Diwali” campaign invited market-goers, shopkeepers, and community members to actively participate in the cleanliness drive, encouraging a shared sense of responsibility for the area’s upkeep. Volunteers focused on clearing garbage, sweeping public pathways, and educating the public on the environmental and health benefits of a litter-free community. The campaign’s slogan resonated through the marketplace, reminding people that the spirit of Diwali can shine brighter in a clean, well-maintained environment. 

Building a Lasting Impact Through Collaboration 

The NSS and CAIT, Balasore’s collaboration with NYKS marked a significant step toward fostering a cleaner Balasore, with stakeholders from diverse sectors coming together for a common cause. The involvement of community leaders and local officials added gravity to the campaign, inspiring youth volunteers and other community members to sustain cleanliness as a year-round commitment, not just during festival seasons. 

A Vision for a Cleaner Tomorrow 

The Swachhata Campaign under “My Bharat, My Diwali” was not only a visual transformation for Gopal Gan Market Area but also a symbolic call for ongoing dedication to cleanliness in Balasore. With active participation from all corners, the event stands as a testament to the power of collective action in realizing the vision of a cleaner, more beautiful India. 
As this campaign draws to a close, NSS, CAIT, and NYKS vow to keep Balasore clean through consistent efforts and hope the event serves as an inspiration for similar initiatives across the nation.