Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 30 September 2024
The Directorate of Rural Development (RD), Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration are taking significant strides towards a cleaner and greener Union Territory (UT) through the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2024’. The campaign aims to unite the islands’ communities in a shared mission of cleanliness and environmental stewardship.
In an impressive display of collective effort, a variety of activities were conducted across several Gram Panchayats throughout the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The campaign saw enthusiastic participation from local residents, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Line Departments, students, and community leaders, all contributing to the success of the initiative.
At Paschimsagar Beach, under the leadership of Mr. Uma Sankar Sarkar, Pradhan, a beach clean-up drive was organized. With the support of a dinghy, this activity involved participation from the Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM), PRIs, sanitation staff, daily-rated mazdoors (DRMs), village-level workers (VLWs), and local youth. Together, they worked towards maintaining the pristine beauty of the island’s beaches while raising awareness about the importance of keeping the environment clean.
In another significant initiative, a Random Inspection-cum-Awareness Drive was held in the Chunna Bhatta area under Gram Panchayat Hope Town, Ferrargunj Block. The drive focused on discouraging the use of single-use plastics in marketplaces and commercial establishments, highlighting the harmful impact of plastic on the environment and encouraging the community to adopt sustainable alternatives.
Adding to the momentum, Gram Panchayat Neil Kendra organized a cycle rally in which 30 enthusiastic students from Government Senior Secondary School participated. The rally aimed to promote “Swachhata” as a way of life, encouraging individuals to adopt cleanliness practices in their daily routines and spread awareness about the importance of a clean environment.
The Directorate of Rural Development (RD), PRIs, and ULBs extended their heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their incredible support and commitment to the cause. The overwhelming participation has not only contributed to the success of the campaign but has also reinforced the message that protecting the environment and combating climate change is a fundamental duty for all.
Through initiatives like the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands continue to pave the way toward a more sustainable future, with the community leading the charge in safeguarding the region’s natural beauty for generations to come.