The NSS Unit of Arulmigu Meenakshi College of Nursing, in collaboration with Unnat Bharat Abhiyan and ISO, organized a Beach Cleaning Drive and Turtle Nesting Conservation programme on 12th February 2026 at Arupadai Beach, Chennai, under the theme “Beach Cleaning Drive – Turtle Nesting Conservation.” The initiative aimed to restore the shoreline as a safe and sustainable nesting habitat for the Olive Ridley turtle, a species classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
The programme began with an orientation session led by Mr. Praveen, Project Coordinator of the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI). He welcomed the volunteers and provided expert insights into turtle nesting behaviour, the harmful impact of marine debris on coastal biodiversity, and scientific waste management practices. Protective gloves and carry bags were distributed to ensure safe and systematic waste collection.
A total of fifty NSS volunteers and two faculty mentors actively participated in the drive, contributing 104 person-hours of dedicated community service. Over the course of two hours, the team covered a 500-metre stretch of coastline and removed approximately 150 kilograms of plastic waste, discarded fishing nets, glass fragments, and other debris. The collected waste was subsequently handed over to EFI for proper scientific disposal.
Beyond the measurable impact, the drive evoked strong reflections among participants. Students expressed a sense of accountability and environmental consciousness, acknowledging that public health extends beyond clinical spaces to the protection of ecosystems. Faculty mentors observed the students’ commitment and silent determination, describing the experience as transformative rather than instructional. The initiative underscored a powerful message: health does not begin in hospitals—it begins with clean air, clean water, and a clean coastline.
The institution extends its sincere gratitude to the Administration of Arulmigu Meenakshi College of Nursing, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, ISO, the Environmentalist Foundation of India, Mr. Praveen, the dedicated NSS volunteers, and faculty mentors whose collective effort made the programme impactful.
Through sustained environmental engagement and community responsibility, such initiatives pave the way for healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.
