The Indian Development Foundation (IDF) decided to celebrate this Republic Day very differently. They initiated the cleaning up of Asia’s second largest slum in Malwani, Malad, beginning on January 26. One of the stalwarts of IDF, Dr Narayan Iyer, said, “Cleanliness is the most essential thing in the society, if we are to progress. Every individual wants his surroundings to be clean, but unfortunately, due to his economic state, it becomes difficult for him to live in a hygienic society. We at IDF decided to initiate the ‘My Malwani, Mast Malwani’ drive, starting this Republic Day. We have also involved some volunteers from various suburban schools and colleges. Besides, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) too has promised to help us with the clean up drive.”
He adds, "We hope to give the area a new face, and if not beautify it ravishingly, then at least maintain its basic hygiene.  For this, we will first instruct the residents of Malwani to start following hygienic practises. We will also start cleaning up the area in the coming days along with the help of the BMC. At the end of the day, we are all responsible for the world we live in."