All active volunteers were honoured with certificates of appreciation, personally presented by MP Yasmin Qureshi, recognising their contributions to community wellbeing
In a heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s 156th birth anniversary, the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) – UK Kerala Chapter led a community park cleaning drive and launched an ambitious anti-drug initiative in Bolton, reaffirming Gandhi’s values of service, peace, and civic responsibility.
Held at Bolton Children’s Park, the event saw participation from 22 enthusiastic volunteers, who collected over 15 bags of litter, transforming the space into a cleaner and safer environment for local families. The event was inaugurated by Hon. Yasmin Qureshi MP, Member of Parliament for Bolton South & Walkden, who also launched the ‘Sarvodaya Anti-Drug Campaign’, a long-term initiative aimed at raising awareness about substance abuse.
“This initiative reflects the true spirit of Gandhi — service to others and responsibility for our communities,” said MP Yasmin Qureshi. “I am proud to see local organisations leading by example.”
The clean-up and campaign launch were led by Mrs. Shinu Clare Mathews, President of IOC – UK Kerala Chapter, and Mr. Romy Kuriakose, General Secretary and Programme Coordinator. The initiative, dubbed “Sevana Dinam” (Day of Service), sought to embody Gandhiji’s principle of leading by example.
“On Gandhi Jayanti, we wanted to honour his message through action,” said Mrs. Mathews. “This clean-up and the launch of the Anti-Drug Campaign remind us that community service and social responsibility are timeless values.”
“This was more than cleaning a park,” added Mr. Kuriakose. “It was about uniting our community under the values of Gandhiji. The overwhelming support of our volunteers shows that these ideals remain alive and relevant today.”
As part of the commemorations, floral tributes were paid to Gandhiji’s portrait, and members participated in the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Gathering’, reflecting on his enduring values of truth, peace, and non-violence.
All active volunteers were honoured with certificates of appreciation, personally presented by MP Yasmin Qureshi, recognising their contributions to community wellbeing.
Looking ahead, the Sarvodaya Anti-Drug Campaign promises a series of nationwide awareness programmes. These will include public interventions to curb substance abuse, human chains, marathons carrying anti-drug messages, and other community-driven efforts designed to educate and empower.
Among the dedicated participants were Gibson Philip George, Arun Philipose, Philip Kochitty, Reena Romy, Renjith Kumar K V, Jacob Varghese, Frebin Francis, Baby Lukose, Sojan Jose, Robin Louis, Amal Mathew, Chinnu K J, Pranad P P, Joyesh Antony, Justin Jacob, Bindhu Philip, Anagha Jose, Lovely P D, Scania Robin, and Soby Kuruvilla.
The initiative underscored the IOC UK Kerala Chapter’s commitment to Sarvodaya — the upliftment of all — through hands-on community engagement and socially responsible leadership.
