Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, has called for a revolution in the Government’s ongoing cleanliness initiative. During a high-level review meeting on the Special Campaign 5.0, he stressed that turning the campaign into a mass movement requires public involvement, innovation, and private sector engagement.
Meeting participants included senior officials from multiple departments, where Dr. Singh highlighted the need to move beyond mere symbolism in cleanliness efforts. He urged the institutionalization of cleanliness practices, space optimization, and efficient record management as essential components of governance.
“We should integrate technology, community engagement, and private sector collaboration to ensure the campaign sustains itself throughout the year,” Dr. Singh stated firmly.
The Minister advocated for leveraging corporate partnerships and small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through bodies like NASSCOM. These collaborations aim to develop innovative waste management solutions for urban areas, especially in hotels and government establishments. Engaging digital technologies and smart recycling models, such as automated waste segregation, could enhance operational efficiency while creating new livelihood opportunities.
In an effort to boost effectiveness across ministries, Dr. Singh proposed creating a central repository for “best practices” in cleanliness. Documenting successful models from public spaces, educational institutions, and various government departments could facilitate wider implementation across the nation.
“We need to identify innovative initiatives such as electronic file disposal and repurposing cleared government land,” he remarked, aiming to set high standards in governance and cleanliness.
Dr. Singh also emphasized the pivotal role of youth and women in energizing the campaign. He pointed out, “When young people and women join the movement, it becomes more vibrant and impactful.” He urged that Swachhata (cleanliness) messages be amplified through educational institutions and community volunteers to instil a sense of collective responsibility.
Reflecting on the campaign’s history, Dr. Singh noted that its evolution from a short-term cleanliness drive to a transformative governance model promotes efficiency, transparency, and citizen-centric administration. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to sustaining this momentum under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Best practices that emerge from this initiative will be shared with States, PSUs, and autonomous bodies.
Earlier in the meeting, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, underscored the critical need for behavioural change and youth involvement in promoting the vision of “Swachh Bharat.” He suggested appointing student and youth ambassadors from colleges to spread awareness and motivate communities about maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
The meeting also featured notable attendees such as V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG; Sarita Chuhan, Joint Secretary, DARPG; among other officials from various governmental departments and partner organizations. Their collective goal is to advance the cleanliness movement into a recognizable mass movement, appealing to the public’s sense of duty and responsibility.
