Mumbai, October 31: Schoolchildren in Maharashtra have played a significant role in making Diwali brighter for the underprivileged in the state. Students from 13 districts in the state saved up to Rs5 crore by adhering to their pledge of not firing crackers. The money will be donated for social causes.
On October 17, DNA reported about a cracker-free Diwali campaign undertaken by the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti (MANS).
Students were asked not to fire crackers and instead donate that money for social causes.
The initiative had the support of social activist Anna Hazare, cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar, world-renowned scientist Jayant Narlikar, social activist Dr Prakash Amte and actor Nana Patekar.
“The campaign was a huge success,” said Anil Karvir, state coordinator of MANS’ campaign. The total amount saved is expected to be in excess of Rs12 crore. “The money saved in 13 other districts is yet to be calculated. Once that is done, it will cross the Rs12-crore mark,” said Karvir.
Naigaon’s Don Bosco School will give the money to people affected by earthquakes in north-eastern states.
The Mahatma Phule Technical High School in Parel donated its savings to visually-impaired students in Mumbai.
Source: DNA