By Tr Namrata Goddeti for BIS Mumbai

On September 11, 2025, the Scouts and Guides unit of Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik took a commendable initiative by organizing a Cleanliness Drive as part of the nationwide Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. This drive was a significant step toward promoting awareness about cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental responsibility, not just within the school community but also in the surrounding areas.

The event was conducted under the able leadership and guidance of the School Principal, Fr Rixson, and the dedicated Scouts and Guides in-charges — Sir Santosh, Tr Anagha, and Tr Laxmi. Students from Grades 8 and 9 actively participated in the drive, showing great enthusiasm, discipline, and a willingness to contribute meaningfully to society.

The cleanliness drive covered a wide area, including the school campus, adjoining roads, and a nearby public park. The students, divided into small teams, were provided with gloves, garbage bags, face masks, brooms, and other cleaning tools. With a strong sense of purpose, they began collecting litter, segregating waste, clearing fallen leaves, and removing weeds. They worked tirelessly to clean the pathways and corners that are often neglected.

In addition to the physical cleaning, the students also took steps to spread awareness. They prepared and displayed hand-made placards and posters with impactful slogans such as “Don’t Litter – Keep Our City Clean”, “Cleanliness is Next to Godliness”, and “Be the Change You Want to See”. These messages were intended to inspire the public and promote a lasting culture of cleanliness and environmental care.

Throughout the activity, the students exhibited a high level of teamwork, leadership, and civic sense. They coordinated tasks, helped one another, and worked efficiently — embodying the core values of the Scouts and Guides movement, which include service, responsibility, and discipline.

The event concluded with a pledge ceremony, where all the participating Scouts and Guides solemnly vowed to maintain cleanliness in their homes, school, and community. They also committed to being ambassadors of environmental awareness and to encouraging others to adopt clean and green habits. The drive was well-received by the local residents, many of whom expressed appreciation and support.

This cleanliness drive was not just a one-day activity, but a meaningful experience that left a lasting impact on everyone involved. It served as a practical lesson in environmental stewardship, civic responsibility, and leadership. Most importantly, it empowered young students to realize that small actions can lead to big changes, and that they are indeed capable of making a difference in society.