Mangaluru: 700 students participate in Walkathon for Bharath, urged to uphold unity and cleanliness

Over 700 students and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers took part in the 'Walkathon for Bharath' programme held in Mangaluru on August 8. The event was jointly organised by Disha Bharath, Canara College, and Mangalore University's NSS unit, with the aim of promoting national integration and civic responsibility among the youth.

The walkathon commenced at Canara College in Kodialbail and proceeded through PVS Circle before concluding at the T.V. Raman Pai auditorium, where a gathering was held. Participants walked the route while holding a long National Flag, a visual symbol of unity and pride.

Addressing the participants, actor and film director Swaraj Shetty emphasised the need for citizens to live in harmony with people of different communities. He said that mutual respect and understanding are essential for the country's progress. Mr. Shetty also lauded the efforts of organisations involved in cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharath campaign. He stressed that it is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure that the surroundings remain clean and unpolluted.

Latesh Bakrabail, District Secretary of Akhila Bharatiya Sahitya Parishat, Dakshina Kannada, also spoke on the occasion. He urged the younger generation to actively engage in nation-building activities and to preserve the cultural and social values that define the country.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from students of various colleges, with NSS volunteers playing a key role in coordinating the walkathon. The organisers expressed satisfaction over the turnout and hoped that such initiatives would inspire more young people to contribute positively to society.

The walkathon is part of a broader effort by Disha Bharath and its partner institutions to foster a sense of collective responsibility among students. By combining the themes of national unity and environmental cleanliness, the programme aimed to address two key concerns: social harmony and sustainable living.

As the walkathon concluded, participants shared a sense of accomplishment, having taken part in an event that underscored the importance of unity and civic duty. The organisers announced that similar programmes would be held in the future to engage more students in nation-building activities.