• ‘The Director himself led a team of youngsters to clean the solid waste from Tourist Park near Baba Jitto Dev Sthan Jhiri, under "Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita" aimed at engaging and motivating individuals, particularly in rural areas, to actively participate in the ongoing cleanliness drive’

JAMMU: Director Rural Sanitation, J&K Mr. Charandeep Singh on Sunday launched Indian Swachhata League 2.0 (ISL 2.0) an inter-district competition led by youth towards building Garbage Free J&K by flagging off ‘Swachhata Karwaan 2.0’ from Panchayat Kalyanpur (Jhiri), Block Marh, District Jammu.

The Director himself led a team of youngsters to clean the solid waste from Tourist Park near Baba Jitto Dev Sthan Jhiri, under "Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita" (Cleanliness Warrior Competition), a unique initiative launched by the Directorate of Rural Sanittaion, J&K aimed at engaging and motivating individuals, particularly in rural areas, to actively participate in the ongoing cleanliness drive.

Around 500 people including students, sports persons, PRIs, prominent people of adjoining villages, officials and shopkeepers participated in the cleanliness drive. One ton of garbage was collected in and around the public park during a two-hour long sanitation drive.

‘Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita’ competition seeks to recognize and reward individuals and teams who have made exceptional contributions to maintaining sanitation and hygiene standards within their communities.  Immediately after the flagging off ceremony, sanitation drives were also launched in all the districts of J&K in which thousands of people participated to clean the public places.

During the flag-off ceremony, Director emphasized the importance of community-driven efforts in achieving the goals of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. He stated, "Cleanliness is not just a government initiative; it is a collective responsibility of every citizen. The 'Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita' is designed to celebrate those who have taken it upon themselves to be the change-makers in their villages and towns."

Director further said that the "Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita" is expected to not only encourage more active participation in sanitation initiatives but also foster a sense of pride and responsibility among the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. It aligns with the broader vision of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to create a clean and healthy India. The competition was held under ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign- a fortnight long sanitation drives across India.

The collection of garbage during the drive was evaluated based on quantity and a panel of officials assessed the entries and awarded the winning team. Prizes and certificates were awarded to individuals, who bagged first, second and third positions in different sports activities organised during the day. Exam Pad and flower vases made of recycled waste were distributed among the students who participated in swachhata themed painting competition at the venue.

Local leaders, community representatives, and students attended the flag-off event, showcasing their support for the initiative. They highlighted the need for sustained efforts to ensure that Jammu and Kashmir remains a shining example of cleanliness and hygiene in the country. Director also added that as the competition gains momentum, it is hoped that it will inspire individuals and communities to take proactive steps towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Jammu and Kashmir.

For more updates on the "Swachh Yodha Pratiyogita" and its impact on rural sanitation efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, stay tuned to official social media pages of Directorate of Rural Sanitation, J&K for regular updates and coverage. Present on the occasion were Deputy Director Rural Sanitation, J&K Sanna Khan, ACD Jammu Ms. Preeti Sharma and BDOs.