Dr. Himanshu Pathak Launches Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign 2024 with a Focus on Cleanliness and Environmental Sustainability

The Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, officially launched the Swachhta Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign 2024 at the NASC Complex in New Delhi. The event, held in the Board Room of IGH, witnessed Dr. Pathak administering the Swachhta Pledge in the presence of senior officials, including the Additional Secretary (D) & Secretary of ICAR, Deputy Director Generals, and other key dignitaries from DARE and ICAR. A wide virtual participation saw all 113 ICAR research institutes and 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) joining in the pledge, showcasing strong national commitment to the campaign's objectives.

The 2024 edition of the Swachhta Hi Seva campaign, themed ‘Swabhav Swachhata - Sanskaar Swachhata,’ runs from 17th September to 1st October and emphasizes cleanliness and environmental sustainability. The campaign began with a formal Swachhta Pledge followed by a nationwide plantation drive titled 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', encouraging community involvement and environmental stewardship. This year’s campaign also marks the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, adding deeper significance to the ongoing efforts for a cleaner and greener India.

The plantation drive, ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, witnessed active participation from local bodies across the country, aiming to raise environmental awareness and contribute to beautifying public spaces. The initiative focuses on planting trees to honor collective environmental responsibilities, complementing the campaign's larger goal of promoting cleanliness, enhancing landscapes, and fostering ecological sustainability.

Through initiatives like SHS, DARE, ICAR, and other participating organizations are committed to mobilizing communities, raising environmental consciousness, and reinforcing cleanliness as a vital element of national progress and societal well-being.