Visakhapatnam observed the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on Friday through programmes focused on cleanliness, self-reliance, community service, skill development and rehabilitation. Various government departments, public-sector organisations, civic bodies and voluntary groups participated in the activities.

At Visakhapatnam Central Jail, Gandhi Jayanti was observed as Prisoners’ Welfare Day. Principal District & Sessions Judge G. Srinivas presided over the programme, where certificates were presented to prisoners who completed an Office Assistant course. Prizes were also given to inmates who participated in sports and games.

District Collector M. Abhishikt Kishore said prisoners were being provided skill training and employment opportunities through prison industries, along with wages, to support their rehabilitation. The prison authorities said various skills, including plumbing, welding, jute-bag making and tailoring, were being taught to inmates.

At Pedawaltair, the Bhagavathula Charitable Trust Residential High School organised a Khadi Santha near Sri Karakachettu Polamamba Temple. Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat inaugurated the exhibition and emphasised the promotion of Khadi, Swadeshi products, local artisans and traditional handicrafts.

 

The Visakhapatnam Steel Plant at Ukkunagaram also observed Gandhi Jayanti, while CREDAI Visakhapatnam, along with Rotary Blood Bank and Life Share Blood Centre, organised a blood donation camp in which around 80 people donated blood.