Cuttack, Nov 13:
Five leading non-governmental organisations jointly conducted a large-scale Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, along with dengue prevention, malaria eradication and AIDS awareness programmes, at the historic Bali Yatra ground on Wednesday.
The initiative was organised by Citizens’ Human Rights Clinic (CHRC), Odisha, Sabitri Devi Charitable Trust, Maya nidra Foundation, Purbasa Tarini Maa Socio-Economic Developmental Organisation, and Mother Teresa Seva Sangha.
The event was inaugurated in the presence of Gopabandhu Mallick, IPS (Retd.) and former Additional DGP of Police, Prof. Niranjan Barik, former Professor of Ravenshaw University, eminent novelist Prof. Rashmi Roul, and several noted social activists including Nrusingha Nath Nanda (Jehovah Group), Banashree Mohapatra, Biswakesan Behera, Khagen Bharati, Sujata Behera, and Puspanjali Bharati.
Noted journalist and former Press Council of India member Sarat Chandra Behera was also present.
Citizen Participation Essential: Prof. Barik
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Barik stressed that the success of Swachh Bharat Mission depends on active citizen participation, as government-led initiatives alone cannot bring about long-term behavioural and cultural change.
He urged the public to adopt hygienic practices, proper waste disposal, and support the mission to transform it into a mass movement.
Focus on Dengue & Malaria Control
Experts and speakers highlighted urgent concerns relating to dengue and malaria outbreaks. Eminent novelist Prof. Rashmi Roul and other speakers outlined practical measures for disease prevention and encouraged community responsibility.
Speakers from Balasore, including Bhanusree Mohapatra and Khagen Bharati, also addressed the audience, receiving appreciation for their contributions.
Widespread Public Response
The awareness programme, conducted amid the vibrant atmosphere of Bali Yatra, drew significant public attention. Many visitors commended the organisations for their dedicated efforts in promoting cleanliness and public health.
NGOs to Expand Welfare Activities
CHRC Chairman Gopabandhu Mallick informed that the participating organisations will continue to integrate various social welfare activities in the coming days.
He added that with public cooperation and support from both Central and State Governments, these initiatives would be expanded to reach more communities across Odisha.
