During the ongoing FIFA World Cup, images of Japanese football fans cleaning up stadiums after their team's matches captured the attention of people around the world. While many spectators left behind litter and waste, Japanese supporters stayed back to collect trash and leave the stands spotless. This practice is known in Japan as "gomi hiroi," which means picking up garbage. It reflects a deep-rooted cultural value that emphasizes cleanliness, respect for shared spaces, and consideration for others. For the Japanese, cleaning up the space used by them is simply a responsibility. In Japanese schools, children are taught to clean their own classrooms, corridors, and even toilets. This daily practice helps them develop discipline and teamwork. There is an important lesson here for India. Despite numerous cleanliness campaigns and awareness drives, littering remains a common problem across the country and Goa is no different. Schools can play a crucial role by encouraging students to participate in maintaining their surroundings. By adopting a culture of respect for public spaces and taking responsibility for our own waste, Indians can contribute significantly to building a cleaner and more pleasant nation.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
