Kullu Manali: On 15 August 2025, as part of the “Year of Compassion” programme and the celebration of the 79th Anniversary of India’s Independence Day, the Kullu-Manali Ghoton Organising Committee, in collaboration with the local district government, organised a large-scale environmental cleaning drive across the region.

The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from a diverse group of community members, including residents of Kullu and Manali, teachers and staff from Manali STS School, members of Dhobi Palrabling Tibetan Settlement, community representatives from Bhuntar Phuntsok Raptenling Tibetan Settlement, TCV Vocational Training Centre in Patlikuhl, and representatives of the local Tibetan Women Association. Over 70 individuals actively contributed to the drive.

The first day of the programme commenced with the cleaning operation beginning at Dungri and concluding at Rambagh Forest in Manali. During the event, the Kullu-Manali Tibetan Settlement Officer addressed the public, emphasising the significance of this year being designated as the Year of Compassion and highlighting the collective responsibility of citizens to engage in initiatives that benefit the wider community.

Among the distinguished guests present were Sunita Sharma, Vice President of the Manali Municipal Corporation, and Titu, Range Officer of the Manali Forest Department, both of whom addressed the participants.

The second day’s activities extended to the Kullu Dhalpur ground and continued along the roadsides and market areas governed by the local district administration. The Vice Chairman of the Kullu District Government, Shri Chandhan Premi, attended the event as the chief guest and delivered a formal speech. In recognition of his support, the Kullu-Manali TSO presented him with a commemorative Ghoton Memento.

The programme concluded on a positive note with refreshments and snacks served to all participants, celebrating their valuable contribution to the environmental cause.

-Report filed by TSO Kullu Manali