Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, urged ministries to transform the Government’s ongoing cleanliness initiative into a mass movement that promotes public participation, innovation, and private sector engagement. This call came during a high-level review meeting on the implementation of Special Campaign 5.0, held on October 2, 2023, in New Delhi.
Dr. Singh emphasized the need to transcend symbolic efforts in favor of institutionalizing cleanliness efforts, space optimization, and effective record management. He stated, “We should integrate technology, community engagement, and private sector collaboration to ensure that the campaign sustains itself throughout the year.”
The minister highlighted the potential of leveraging corporate partnerships and collaboration with Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through NASSCOM to unlock innovative waste management solutions, particularly in urban clusters, hotels, and government establishments. He pointed out the benefits of adopting digital technologies such as automated waste segregation and electronic scrap management, which can improve operational efficiency and create new livelihood opportunities.
“Sharing best practices is essential,” Dr. Singh remarked, calling for successful cleanliness models from various sectors to be documented and disseminated nationally via a central repository. He proposed identifying innovative initiatives such as electronic file disposal, smart waste reuse, and the repurposing of cleared government land to establish new governance benchmarks.
The urgent involvement of youth and women is crucial for revitalizing the campaign, according to Dr. Singh. He noted, “When young people and women join the movement, it becomes more vibrant and impactful.” He encouraged amplifying Swachhata messages through educational institutions and volunteers, thereby fostering a culture of collective responsibility.
Reflecting on previous editions, Dr. Singh stated that the Special Campaign had evolved beyond a short-term cleanliness drive into a transformative governance model. This model promotes efficiency, transparency, and citizen-centric administration. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to maintaining momentum in this effort under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and announced intentions to share innovative best practices emerging from the campaign with states, public sector undertakings, and autonomous bodies.
In his address, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, acknowledged the necessity of behavioural change and youth participation in realizing the vision of a “Swachh Bharat.” He proposed appointing student and youth ambassadors from various colleges and universities to raise awareness and inspire communities to maintain cleanliness.
The meeting attracted key officials including V. Srinivas, Secretary of DARPG, and Sarita Chuhan, Joint Secretary of DARPG, along with senior representatives from the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, the Department of Personnel and Training, and allied organizations.
