Inclusive plogging run held by Disability Rights Association Goa

Disability Rights Association of Goa- DRAG is an organization dedicated to empowerment of disabled community in Goa. The organization is run by dynamic individuals who believe in taking action to bring about a positive change instead of waiting for others to improve things. A fine example of this spirit was seen yesterday as DRAG organized an ‘Inclusive Plogging Run’ to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Plogging is a combination of two activities- jogging while picking up litter on the way. It combines fitness and the cause of maintaining cleanliness in our surroundings and this was the idea behind DRAG’s initiative.

As part of the ‘Fit India Movement’ and to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, DRAG organized the inclusive plogging run from old Directorate of Education building in Panaji to Directorate of Social Welfare.

Vishant Nagvekar, activist and Disability Rights Association of Goa- DRAG member also took part in the run and shared his thoughts with Newz Hook.

The plogging was extremely successful and we are happy to be a part of a positive change movement. We had initially decided to clean the Junta House entrance and once we started the walk, we also cleaned the side roads as we went forward. It was amazing to have spent the day for a cause that is so important for everyone. It was a great fusion of fitness with accessibility and cleanliness drive. We all collectively managed to accomplish the task. Looking forward to government authorities to keep the access to disable clean and in usable mode and don’t wait for next 2nd Oct for disabled to clean the access points. I thank all participants and government officials who attended today’s plogging run organized by DRAG Vishant Nagvekar, member DRAG.

The aim of the run yesterday was to clean up the entrance at the Junta House in the capital Panjim. Although the entrance is meant to be accessible, it is usually too cluttered to be of any use to people with disabilities.

More than 30 people with disabilities took part in the event and they were also accompanied by many others who came to take part in the amazing cause. While some walked along, many of the participants were wheelchair users and took part actively in the cleaning of the place.

“40 participants which included persons with disability and able bodied persons. It was a great experience and everybody enjoyed themselves as it was organized for the first time in goa. Everyone was very happy to have contributed to the swach bharat and fit india campaign of Prime Minister Modiji on the occasion of Gandhi jayanti”, said Avelino De Sa, President Disability Rights Association of Goa.

The plogging was flagged off by chief guest Nila Mohanan, who is Secretary Education. A certificate distribution ceremony was held at the end of program and Additional Collector North Vikas Gaunekar gave away the certificates to participants.

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