“Swachhata Hi Seva” 2023: Nationwide Call to Cleanliness Commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s Legacy

New Delhi|Ekta

The nation witnessed a remarkable display of unity and commitment as part of “Swachhata Pakhwada – Swachhata Hi Seva” 2023 on Sunday, a massive cleanliness drive that swept across the country. This momentous event, held in tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the eve of his birth anniversary on October 2, 2023, was organized to inspire collective action towards a cleaner and more hygienic India.

The day began with the sun casting a hopeful light on the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, where:

Cleaning Various Areas: Volunteers dedicated themselves to cleaning and beautifying different areas, tackling challenges such as the removal of garbage, horticulture waste, construction debris, and other waste materials. The day also witnessed the transformation of external walls with vibrant slogans and murals, adding an artistic dimension to the drive.

A Unified Assembly: The Central Lawn at AIMS became a focal point for dedicated volunteers from all walks of life, who gathered with one common goal – to make a tangible difference.

Registration and T-Shirt Distribution: In the Foyer, participants received registration assistance, and were honored with commemorative T-shirts, symbolizing their role as champions of cleanliness.

Dignitaries and the Swachhata Pledge: The event was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries who joined hands with all participants to take the Swachhata Pledge, a solemn oath affirming their unwavering commitment to cleanliness and hygiene.

Teams Mobilized: Dispatch vehicles stood at the ready, symbolizing the mobilization of teams to various event sites, primed to undertake the day’s tasks with unwavering enthusiasm.

Shramdaan in Full Swing: The true spirit of “Shramdaan” (voluntary labor) came alive as participants engaged in meaningful activities at all event sites, embodying the ethos of selfless service.

Ministry Officials Lead by Example: High-ranking officials and dignitaries from the Ministry actively participated in Shramdaan activities at the Foyer and Central Lawn, setting a compelling example of leadership.

Continued Dedication: Cleaning and a multitude of other activities continued tirelessly at event sites, a testament to the unyielding collective dedication to the cause of cleanliness.

A Celebration of Efforts: As the day drew to a close, a sense of accomplishment filled the air. Participants were rewarded for their dedication with Jute Bags and Refreshments as tokens of appreciation, marking the culmination of the event.

Dr. (Prof.) M. Srinivas, Director of AIIMS, New Delhi, expressed his pride in the event, stating, “Swachhata Hi Seva 2023 is a reflection of the indomitable spirit of our citizens. It is a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a cleaner and healthier India.”

Dr. Rima Dada, Professor in Charge of the Media Cell, said A clean India will lay the foundation of a healthy India. She said we also need to increase awareness regarding the single use of plastics. India generates 26000 metric tonnes of plastic daily, and 10000 metric tonnes pollute our environment. It enters water bodies and food chains and has endocrine-disrupting chemicals. She said further AIIMS, under CSR with Indian Oil, has installed reverse vending machines for their proper disposal. We have machines for the disposal and incineration of sanitary napkins. AIIMS is committed to reducing pollution and has 50 E-vehicles and E-buses for patient movement and cycles for staff and doctors. The programme was organised by Dr. Abdul of hospital administration and saw the participation of doctors, students, scientists, nurses, paramedics, and sanitary and security staff.