Dept of Agricultural Research and Education Leads Successful Swachhta Campaign

In line with the Government of India's directives, the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) has undertaken an extensive 10-month-long Swachhta Campaign to promote cleanliness and good governance across its various units, including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Central Agricultural Universities (CAUs), the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), and Agrinnovate India Limited.

This campaign served as a sequel to Special Campaign 2.0, which ran from October 2nd to October 31st, 2022. During the course of this significant campaign, a myriad of accomplishments and activities were realized:

1. Public Grievances Addressed: A total of 1,363 public grievances were effectively resolved, demonstrating the commitment of DARE and its affiliated organizations to responsive governance.

2. File Management: A whopping 10,203 files were systematically weeded, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing efficiency.

3. Cleanliness Drives: An impressive 353 cleanliness and Swachhta campaigns were organized, contributing to the improved aesthetics and hygiene of various locations.

4. Space Utilization: Approximately 109,700 square feet of space was reclaimed, optimizing resource utilization.

5. Revenue Generation: The Swachhta Campaign resulted in the generation of INR 68,89,879 in revenue, a testament to the productive outcomes of the initiative.

6. VIP References: A remarkable 171 VIP references were expedited, further showcasing the campaign's effectiveness in addressing important matters.

Additionally, during the Swachh Bharat campaign, various ICAR institutes embarked on a range of activities to promote environmental sustainability:

• Waste Segregation: The campuses of several ICAR institutes engaged in waste segregation, differentiating biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials.

• Cleanliness Activities: Institutes undertook comprehensive cleanliness activities, encompassing the removal of weeds, trash, and waste management through composting and vermin-composting techniques.

• Plastic-Free Initiatives: Measures to reduce plastic usage were implemented, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.

Notable Best Practices adopted during the campaign period include:

(a) Acupressure Park Transformation: An abandoned land area at ICAR-CIPHET campus was ingeniously transformed into an Acupressure Park, simultaneously enhancing public health and environmental aesthetics. Indoor plant pots were placed in office rooms to augment oxygen levels.

(b) "Say No to Plastic" Drive: ICAR-CIFT conducted an awareness drive against plastic usage in Valanthakadu island village, educating the community on the detrimental effects of plastic pollution.

(c) Painting Competition for Marine Conservation: ICAR-CMFRI, Regional Station, Calicut organized a painting competition with the theme "Swachh Bharat – Swachh Sagar," engaging school children in raising awareness about coastal and marine pollution.

(d) Waste Utilization: ICAR-IARI, Jharkhand, carried out a waste utilization program, showcasing vermicomposting techniques using farm and domestic waste products.

These initiatives have not only addressed crucial issues but have also instilled a sense of responsibility and awareness among the public, making significant strides towards a cleaner and healthier India.