Puttur, May 28: In commemoration of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 and to observe International Day of Cooperatives, St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, hosted the "Swachhata Se Sahakar" initiative, a collaborative programme supported by the Karnataka State Cooperative Federation Ltd., Bengaluru, Dakshina Kannada District Central Cooperative Bank Ltd., Mangalore, Dakshina Kannada District Cooperative Union Ltd., Mangalore, and the Department of Cooperation, Dakshina Kannada District.
The campaign was formally inaugurated by Shashikumar Rai Ballyottu, President of the D.K. District Cooperative Union, who highlighted that the programme was in alignment with the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and the objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission, initiated as part of his 150th birth anniversary celebrations. He emphasized the theme of the event “Cooperation for a Better World” and reiterated the role of cooperative institutions in fostering rural development and economic empowerment. Citing examples of stalwarts such as Savanooru Seetharam Rai, who established Adarsha Vividoddesha cooperative society with 15 branches, and Molahalli Shivaraya, pioneer of the cooperative movement in Dakshina Kannada, he praised the legacy of the region in cooperative excellence. Addressing the student community, he encouraged them to explore opportunities within the cooperative movement to shape their futures meaningfully.
S.B. Jayaram Rai, Director of the D.K. District Central Cooperative Bank, elaborated on the historical context of cooperative banks. He described how these institutions were established to free the common populace from the exploitative grip of informal lending systems. He asserted that cooperative banks remain committed to supporting individuals “from cradle to grave.”
Dr S.R. Harish Acharya, Director of the D.K. District Cooperative Union, delivered an insightful keynote on the non-discriminatory, secular, and apolitical foundations of the cooperative movement. Referring to Mahatma Gandhi as the true ambassador of cleanliness, he noted that real change begins with self-awareness. “Cleanliness should extend beyond physical spaces to encompass environmental consciousness and civic responsibility,” he said. Dr Acharya stressed that civic discipline, awareness, and individual accountability are essential for the successful implementation of any national policy, including those promoting hygiene and sustainability. He advocated for converting organic waste into manure for home gardens and farming, presenting a practical model for ecological responsibility.
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of St Philomena College, reflected on the broader meaning of cleanliness. He remarked, “Cleanliness is not merely about keeping the surroundings clean; it involves moral and mental purification as well.” He encouraged students to cultivate intellectual curiosity and scientific temper to overcome inner negativity and contribute meaningfully to a better society. Praising the organizers for bringing such an event to the college, he stated that structured education must be complemented by values that students imbibe through real-life engagements.
The event witnessed the gracious presence of dignitaries including Manjunath N.S., Director of the D.K. District Cooperative Union; S.N. Raghu, Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Puttur Subdivision; Sanjeev Poojary, Director of the D.K. District Cooperative Union; and Vasanth Jaladi, Operations Officer of the Adarsha Multipurpose Cooperative Society, all of whom were seated on the dais.
S.V. Hiremath, Chief Executive Officer of the D.K. District Cooperative Union, extended a warm welcome and delivered the introductory remarks. The event began with a prayer rendered by Tanvi Rai and team. The programme was compered by Harshith K., Coordinator, PG Department of Commerce, Shilpa, Assistant Professor, PG Department of Physics proposed the vote of thanks. Vipin Nayak, Coordinator, PG Department of Physics, and Bharathi S. Rai, PRO of the College, actively supported the event.
As part of the campaign, students and faculty undertook cleanliness activities and sapling plantation drive within the college campus and reinforced the message of sustainable cooperation and environmental stewardship.