In a remarkable display of environmental consciousness and women’s empowerment, Darjeeling today hosted its first-ever Women’s Plogging Championship, marking a significant step toward sustainable living and community action. The event was organized as part of the Youth Festival 2025, under the Mero Darjeeling initiative.
The streets of Darjeeling came alive as over 180 women, ranging in age from 14 to 77, took part in the unique race that combined jogging with litter collection — popularly known as plogging. In total, the participants collected an astounding 895 kilograms of waste, averaging nearly 5 kg per person.
Unlike conventional races, this championship rewarded environmental effort over speed. Manita Thami, a student of Nepali Girls High School, secured first place by collecting 6.170 kilograms of waste. Remit Lepcha came second with 6.03 kg, and Anupama Tamang followed in third place with 5.65 kg.
The event was ceremoniously flagged off by Chief Guest Pratima Rai, a celebrated Everester and local icon, who addressed the gathering with a strong message:
“A fit body and a clean environment are both essential for a healthy life. It is inspiring to see our women leading this change.”
Participants compared the initiative to traditional pre-festival cleaning associated with Dassai and Diwali, bringing cultural relevance to modern sustainability efforts.
Organizers highlighted the event as a stepping stone toward a Mega Plogging Championship planned in the near future, aiming to mobilize even more citizens in the fight against urban waste and environmental degradation.
The Women’s Plogging Championship is being hailed as a symbol of change — promoting fitness, environmental responsibility, and women’s leadership, all in one powerful stride.
