Inspired by PM's commitment, educationist donates Rs 5 crore towards Swachh Bharat

Bengaluru, Apr 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet initiative of Swachh Bharat got a major boost when Bengaluru-based leading educationist-cum-activist Dr Mohan Manghnani donated Rs 5 crore towards the cause.

Dr Manghnani, who is the Chairman of New Horizon group of institutions, handed over the cheque to Modi at Hotel Ashok. Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Prahlad Joshi was present during the occasion.

Speaking to OneIndia on Saturday, Dr Mohan, who has been a great supporter of Indian armed forces, said that he was inspired by the PM's commitment towards the Swachh Bharat initiative. [PM Narendra Modi highlights govt achievements at BJP's public meeting]

"I am moved by our Prime Minister's humbleness. He was extremely polite and was very warm to have met us. He said every Indian should make Swachh Bharat a mission that will be undertaken on a daily basis," Dr Manghnani said.

Responded soon after Modi's I-Day speech

Interestingly, Dr Manghnani was among the first Indians to respond to Modi's call to build toilets in government schools. During his maiden Independence Day speech as the PM, Modi had desired that every government schools in India should have proper toilets.

Inspired by Modi's I-Day speech, Dr Manghnani had written to the PM seeking direction for the way ahead to realize his dream. The New Horizon Educational and Cultural Trust runs eight educational institutions in Bangalore, including an engineering college, which is currently ranked No 1 in Karnataka.

"I was very inspired by PM's I-Day message. Soon after the Trust decided to take PM's idea forward in a special general body meeting. We then wrote to the PM seeking his guidance so that the money is spent the right way. I am extremely delighted that we are now part of a mission to construct toilets in government schools," Dr Manghnani told OneIndia.

Renuka Manghnani, Executive Director, New Horizon Educational Institution (NHEI), said that the PM wanted more people to join the Swachh Bharat mission. [Rs 460 crore given to 10 states under Swachh Bharat Mission: Govt tells Parliament]

"He was clear that Swachh Bharat has to be a national mission. He asked us to spread awareness of Swachh Bharat mission among more Indians. We are inspired by his guru-like way of speaking and commitment. He is a man full of positive energy," Mrs Renuka Manghnani said.

First to honour Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan

The NHEI hit the headlines after it dedicated an entire block of the engineering college in Marthahalli named after late Sandeep Unnikrishnan, who laid down his life fighting terrorists during the 26/11 operations in Mumbai.

Every year NHEI organizes remembrance services in honour of Sandeep Unnikrishnan at the college premises.

"We do not want any publicity for our social activities. It's been done with a purity of mind and soul. Educational institutions must go beyond their brief and ensure that the sacrifices of our armed forces are remembered all the time. This will inspire more youth to join the forces. Sandeep will always remain as a hero in our hearts," Dr Manghnani said.

Over 10 blocks of various institutions under New Horizon group have been named after various freedom fighters. The group also has been supporting various national movement empowering youth over the years.

Interestingly, the New Horizon Educational and Cultural Trust is a recipient of Karnataka government's Rajyotsava Award for the year 2012 for its contribution in the field of education and social service.

The Trust also runs a school on Gurukul model of teaching in Bengaluru. Various schools under the Trust have been publishing a dedicated newspaper for the last one decade.

"It makes sense to do things differently. Commitment and continuity is the key for nation's progress. We will soon announce some national initiatives in support of girl child as well," Dr Manghnani added.

OneIndia Defence Desk