The Fact News Service
Chandigarh, September 13
In a robust effort to bolster the Government of India’s Swachh Bharat vision, the Ministry of Mines is gearing up for an impactful Swachhata Hi Sewa (SHS) Campaign 2024. Commencing on September 14 and concluding on October 2, this year’s initiative promises to be a hallmark of environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Central to this year’s campaign is the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, which underscores the Ministry’s commitment to increasing green cover across the nation. Under the leadership of Secretary of Mines, V.L. Kantha Rao, the campaign will kick off with the planting of 100 trees in New Delhi on September 16. This symbolic act will set the stage for a widespread tree-planting drive, encouraging both citizens and employees to contribute to this green endeavor.
The campaign’s agenda extends beyond tree planting, encompassing a variety of activities aimed at fostering cleanliness, health, and environmental sustainability. A notable highlight is the extensive cleanliness drives, which will target not just ministry offices but also mining areas and public spaces that are often challenging to maintain. These efforts will address hard-to-clean spots and reinforce the commitment to a cleaner environment.
A pivotal element of SHS 2024 is the Swachhata Pledge, which all Ministry employees will take on September 17. This pledge symbolizes a collective commitment to uphold cleanliness and environmental responsibility. Moreover, the campaign will involve marathons, walkathons, and cyclathons to promote fitness and a culture of cleanliness among local communities, schoolchildren, and the general public.
In a commendable effort to support sanitation workers, special health camps known as Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs will be organized. These camps will provide essential health check-ups, distribute personal protective equipment (PPE), and connect workers with social welfare schemes, reflecting the campaign’s comprehensive approach to well-being and safety.
Transforming neglected and mineral-exhausted areas into clean, green, and usable spaces is another key aspect of the campaign. The Ministry will spearhead the beautification of reclaimed mine sites, turning them into public gardens, recreational areas, and fruit orchards. Additionally, unused rock samples and aluminium scrap will be creatively repurposed into sculptures and structures, showcasing innovative waste management practices.
Raising awareness about environmental conservation, the Ministry’s dignitaries will visit geo-heritage and geo-tourism sites, promoting responsible tourism and cleanliness. Cultural events such as poster-making competitions, essay writing contests, and school activities will engage the youth in the Swachhata mission, ensuring that the next generation is also invested in sustainability.
The campaign will culminate on October 2 with a special tribute to sanitation workers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to maintaining cleanliness throughout the campaign.
The Ministry of Mines invites all citizens to actively participate in SHS 2024, reinforcing the mission for a cleaner and greener India. Through the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative and other planned activities, the Ministry underscores its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and the broader Swachh Bharat Mission. Together, let’s embrace this opportunity to make a lasting impact on our environment and communities.
