Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, recently urged ministries and departments to transform the ongoing cleanliness initiative into a nationwide mass movement. His call for action emphasizes the integration of public participation, innovation, and private sector engagement in this vital campaign.
During a high-level review meeting on the Special Campaign 5.0, held in New Delhi, Dr. Singh expressed the necessity to exceed mere symbolic efforts. Instead, he advocated for institutionalizing cleanliness as part of daily governance. “We should integrate technology, community engagement, and private sector collaboration to ensure that the campaign sustains itself throughout the year,” he stated.
Dr. Singh proposed leveraging corporate partnerships and collaborations with MSMEs through NASSCOM, particularly in urban clusters, hotels, and government establishments. He emphasized that employing digital technologies and smart recycling models, such as automated waste segregation, could enhance operational efficiency while creating new livelihood opportunities across the nation.
Focusing on the significance of sharing best practices, the minister called for the documentation of successful cleanliness models from public spaces and educational campuses. He suggested establishing a central repository to disseminate these initiatives nationally. Innovative ideas such as electronic file disposal and repurposing cleared government land could set new benchmarks for governance.
Moreover, Dr. Singh encouraged the voluntary involvement of youth and women, stating that their participation could invigorate the cleanliness movement. He remarked, “When young people and women join the movement, it becomes more vibrant and impactful.” To foster a culture of collective responsibility, he urged for the amplification of Swachhata messages through schools, colleges, and platforms like My Bharat volunteers.
Referencing the evolution of the cleanliness campaign, Dr. Singh noted that it has transformed from a short-term initiative into a full-fledged governance model promoting efficiency and citizen-centric administration. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to sustain this momentum under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, announcing that innovative practices emerging from this campaign would be shared with states, PSUs, and autonomous bodies.
In support of this vision, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighted the importance of behavioral change among citizens, particularly the youth. He advocated for appointing student and youth ambassadors from various educational institutions to raise awareness and encourage communities to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
The review meeting attracted high-level officials, including V. Srinivas, Secretary of DARPG, and Sarita Chuhan, Joint Secretary of DARPG, alongside representatives from various government departments and partner organizations.
This initiative aims to galvanize a collective effort to see India transformed into a cleaner nation. By fostering a culture of cleanliness through active participation and innovative practices, the Government envisions a sustainable model that empowers all citizens to contribute to a healthier environment.
