On July 6, 2026, in Mangaluru, Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi emphasized that public participation is crucial for the success of government initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. He made these remarks after inaugurating the Swachhata Pakhwada 2026 campaign at Kadri Park, which was jointly organized by Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited and Ramakrishna Mutt.
Suresh Gopi highlighted that the vision of a clean India was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and later transformed into a nationwide movement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The minister noted that the idea of a cleaner India was first pursued by Modi during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later expanded into a nationwide campaign after he became Prime Minister in 2014. Suresh Gopi stressed that cleanliness is a public duty, a civic value, and a shared responsibility, and that the real strength of Swachh Bharat lies in Jan Bhagidari, or people’s participation.
He praised MRPL for partnering with Ramakrishna Mutt, stating that the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to social welfare and environmental protection. Suresh Gopi also acknowledged the efforts of sanitation workers and frontline personnel for maintaining clean public spaces. He urged citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices, such as avoiding littering, reducing plastic waste, and keeping their surroundings clean.
As part of the programme, the minister planted a sapling under the ’Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and distributed jute bags to students. Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Ramakrishna Mutt President Jithakamanandaji, and MRPL Managing Director Mundkur Shyamprasad Kamath were among those present at the event.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalore Today