The India Clean-Up Confluence 2024, held on October 20 at G5A in Mumbai, was a remarkable success. The event drew a diverse mix of participants, bringing together the leaders of clean-up organizations from across India along with a significant presence of younger attendees, showcasing the growing commitment of the next generation to environmental sustainability. It was a day of productive exchanges of conversations and collaborative discussions to devise impactful solutions.
The confluence showcased a distinguished roster of speakers, including Dr Balakrishna Pisupati, India Head of UNEP, Dia Mirza, UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador, Pradeep Sangwan, founder of Healing Himalayas, and Captain DC Sekhar, Founder & Managing Director of AlphaMERS Ltd., who led dynamic panel discussions, and interactive sessions.
The confluence aimed to produce actionable strategies to tackle pollution and promote responsible cleanup and waste management practices. The event unveiled its calendar, highlighting movements from across India, and through pictures one could see the commendable work done by the team. The emotional high point of the confluence was the felicitation of the Safai Yodhas (BMC officials with 15+ years of line of service), recognizing their relentless dedication to cleaning up India’s cities and communities.
One of the other highlights of the event was a special performance curated for the occasion, featuring stand-up comedian Punit Pania and rapper Sahir Doshi, who added a creative and lighthearted touch to the otherwise serious discussions on sustainability.
Dia Mirza, UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador, emphasized the event’s significance, stating: “Events like the India Clean-Up Confluence are key to driving meaningful change. I extend my heartfelt support and appreciation to the team and this initiative, wishing them continued strength, determination, and success. Together, we can make a lasting difference. I am deeply grateful to everyone here and encourage all of us to unite in this movement, working together to restore the health of our planet.”
Dr Balakrishna Pisupati, India’s Head of UNEP, emphasized the confluence’s unique focus, “It was great to see how many focused mindsets came together to discuss the solutions which is the need of the hour. Each discussion was accompanied by concrete steps and strategies that can be implemented to create a positive impact leading to a healthier future”
The organizing team, consisting of Freishia B, Nupur Agarwal, Harold Fernandes, Ashwin Malwade, and Maansi Desai, expressed their enthusiasm: “This confluence marks a pivotal moment for the clean-up movement in both Mumbai and India. By bringing together clean-up organizations, environmental leaders, and stakeholders from across sectors, we’ve not only laid a strong foundation for a nationwide clean-up revolution but also demonstrated the power of collective action. The success of this event lies in its ability to inspire and unite diverse groups with a shared purpose. The actionable outcomes offer a clear, strategic roadmap for communities, businesses, and government to collaborate and tackle waste more effectively, driving lasting environmental change.”
Under the theme, ‘Together for a Better Tomorrow’, the event culminated in developing a comprehensive action plan outlining the next steps toward a cleaner, greener India. The event demonstrated that, with collaboration between clean-up groups, government bodies, and corporations, India can take decisive steps toward building a more sustainable future. The India Clean-Up Confluence 2024 was made possible with the support of Listenlights, Arya Group Foundation and Rossari Biotech.
