Northeast Desk, 18th September: In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, the Meghalaya government has officially launched the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ (SHS) 2024 campaign. The fortnight-long initiative, which began on September 17 and will run through October 2, aims to rejuvenate collective efforts toward cleanliness across the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar highlighted the importance of public participation in ensuring the campaign’s success. “A clean environment is everyone’s responsibility,” Dhar remarked, while also announcing major urban development projects, including a ₹5.8 crore footpath renovation in Iew Duh and a proposed ₹15 crore upgrade for the traditional market. These efforts align with the mission’s broader objectives of improving the health, safety, and well-being of citizens.
Dhar also outlined an ambitious five-year plan aimed at establishing Meghalaya as one of India’s top tourism destinations, emphasizing cleanliness as a crucial element in realizing this vision.
East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah urged greater citizen involvement and underscored the importance of respecting sanitation workers. She revealed that 67 out of 70 government-allocated e-vehicles for waste collection are now operational, improving waste management efficiency.
The launch event featured the administration of the Swachhata pledge and highlighted three key activity pillars: Cleanliness Target Units, public participation initiatives, and health checkups for sanitation workers. JP Lakiang, Mission Director of Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen, described the mission as a transformative initiative that goes beyond sanitation to reshape societal values.
Government officials, students, NCC cadets, village leaders, and self-help group members participated in the event, reflecting the campaign’s wide-reaching appeal and community engagement goals.
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