Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized a transformative approach to cleanliness during a review meeting on Special Campaign 5.0 on October 1, 2023. He called for ministries to evolve the ongoing cleanliness efforts into a mass movement that involves public participation, innovative strategies, and private sector collaboration.
Dr. Singh urged stakeholders to move beyond mere symbolic gestures and integrate cleanliness, space optimization, and record management into day-to-day governance. “We must ensure that this campaign endures and thrives throughout the year,” he stressed, advocating for a united front that leverages technology and community engagement.
He recommended harnessing corporate partnerships and collaborations with MSMEs through NASSCOM to facilitate innovative waste management solutions, particularly in urban areas, hotels, and government establishments. According to Singh, the adoption of digital technologies such as automated waste segregation and electronic scrap management can significantly enhance operational efficiencies while creating new job opportunities.
The Minister also highlighted the necessity of sharing best practices among various ministries, suggesting the establishment of a central repository to document successful cleanliness models. These models can span from public spaces to educational institutions, allowing for a wider dissemination of effective strategies.
Moreover, Dr. Singh proposed identifying groundbreaking initiatives like electronic file disposal, smart waste reuse, and the repurposing of cleared government land to set enhanced governance benchmarks across sectors. He identified the involvement of young people and women as crucial to energizing the initiative. “When our youth and women engage in this movement, it becomes dynamic and impactful,” he noted.
He called for amplifying Swachhata messages through schools, colleges, and volunteers associated with My Bharat, thereby fostering a robust culture of collective responsibility for cleanliness.
Reflecting on the evolution of the Special Campaign, Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked that it transitioned from a short-term cleanliness drive to a transformative governance model that emphasizes efficiency and transparency. He assured that the government remains committed to maintaining momentum under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership. He announced that innovative practices derived from this campaign would be shared across States, PSUs, and autonomous bodies.
Adding to the conversation, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, acknowledged the vital role of behavioural change and youth engagement in achieving the vision of “Swachh Bharat”. He proposed the appointment of student and youth ambassadors from colleges and universities to foster awareness and encourage community efforts towards cleanliness and hygiene.
The meeting saw active participation from DAPRG Secretary V. Srinivas, Joint Secretary Sarita Chuhan, and senior officials from various relevant departments.
