New Delhi: Four village leaders from Meghalaya, whose dedication has transformed their communities through the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), are set to attend this year’s Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort as special guests. Recognised for their exemplary work in sanitation, waste management, and water supply, the delegation will be a part of the 15 August celebrations in the nation’s capital.
Leverius Dkhar of Laitmynsaw, East Khasi Hills; Krin Dkhar of Lumshken, East Jaintia Hills; Cacino Marak of Aminda Rangsagre, West Garo Hills; and Almen D. Shira of Chachatgre, East Garo Hills, will be accompanied by their spouses. The four leaders have successfully guided their villages to achieve ODF Plus status, a significant milestone that signifies not only the end of open defecation but also the effective management of solid and liquid waste. Their initiatives have included promoting composting, ensuring clean public spaces, and, under the JJM, providing piped drinking water to every household.
For Leverius Dkhar, this trip is a return to the capital, having previously visited in 2022 for JJM-related work. His efforts have led to a significant improvement in water supply, with his village now receiving water twice daily. Laitmynsaw has also been recognised with the Mylliem Block’s cleanliness award. Krin Dkhar, who is visiting Delhi for the first time, shared how community cooperation has been key to their success. “Earlier, we fetched water from the forest. Now every household has a connection, and children no longer have to carry water long distances,” he said.
Meanwhile, the village of Aminda Rangsagre, under the leadership of Cacino Marak, was designated an ODF Plus Model Village in 2022. It was one of only five in the Garo Hills to receive the distinction. The village’s comprehensive approach includes building toilets for every home, improving community facilities, and establishing a plastic waste unit. They also introduced composting and biogas plants, which has helped reduce disease, attract tourists, and create new livelihoods from waste-based handicrafts.
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