Mangaluru: The Make A Change Foundation, under the leadership of its founder and chairman Suhail Kandak, successfully organized the Beach Cleaning Initiative 2025 at Ullal Beach, Mangaluru, on Sunday marking another milestone in its mission towards community welfare and environmental conservation.

The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth volunteers, students, local community members, NGOs, and environmental enthusiasts, who came together with a shared vision – to restore the natural beauty of Ullal Beach and spread awareness on the importance of keeping our coastal stretches clean.

Over the course of the event, several tonnes of plastic waste, bottles, wrappers, fishing nets, and other non-biodegradable materials were collected and systematically segregated for recycling and proper disposal. The beach, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dakshina Kannada, was visibly rejuvenated after the massive cleanup effort.

Speaking at the event, Suhail Kandak said: “Beach cleaning isn't just a one-day effort – it's about building a lasting sense of environmental responsibility. We aim to inspire citizens, especially youth, to become change-makers in protecting nature.”

The initiative was also designed as a community celebration of sustainability, with interactive sessions, awareness talks on waste management, cultural performances, and eco-friendly activities. Local residents appreciated the program, stressing that such collective efforts are vital to protecting the marine ecosystem and ensuring a clean, safe environment for future generations.

The Make A Change Foundation has been working across Karnataka on issues of environmental protection, youth empowerment, education, and social justice. The Ullal Beach Cleaning adds to its growing list of impactful community initiatives, aligning with its broader vision of building a more responsible and sustainable society.

The foundation extended gratitude to all volunteers, partner organizations, and local authorities who supported the event. It has also announced plans to organize similar clean-up drives and awareness campaigns in other parts of Dakshina Kannada in the coming months.

The initiative was supported by Yenepoya Institutions, Janapriya Hospital, Dream Deal Group and MFC group of Hotels.

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Amritsar (PTI): Former president Ram Nath Kovind on Friday said that with digital transformation, economic reforms and a strong focus on the ease of doing business, India is moving towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.

He was speaking after inaugurating the 19th edition of the Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX) in Amritsar.

The former president said that this 19th edition of PITEX is being organised at a time when India is recognised as one of the fastest-growing large economies in the world.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the event organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) the former president, while referring to Punjab, said the state is a living example of courage, sacrifice and enterprise.

"The spiritual light of Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) inspires peace and humanity across the world. The heritage of Punjab is deep and inspiring," Kovind said, according to a statement issued by the PITEX.

The former president congratulated the PHDCCI for hosting the 19th edition of PITEX and suggested that the chamber should expand PITEX outside Punjab.

He proposed that a similar event should also be held in New Delhi.