Kargil, Sept 15: As part of the lead-up to the 2024 ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ Campaign, the Municipal Committee of Kargil, in collaboration with the Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Department (RD&PRD) Kargil, organized a community engagement programme on Sept 14 at Auditorium Hall, Kargil. The initiative, focused on cleanliness and environmental sustainability, aligns with this year’s campaign theme, ‘Swabhav Swachhta- Sanskaar Swachhta’, which promotes the adoption of cleanliness across all aspects of daily life.
The event featured a variety of activities designed to raise awareness about cleanliness and the need for active community participation. The programme included performances by the Regional Art & Theatre Group (RaNTHAG) Kargil, a skit by students from Suru Valley Public School, and the screening of a short film directed by Kacho Ahmed Khan, Founder of RaNTHAG. These presentations creatively highlighted the importance of maintaining clean surroundings and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Speaking at the event, Syed Sajjad Qadri, Director of RD&PRD-Ladakh, emphasized the department’s commitment to promoting cleanliness and sustainability. He praised the efforts of the Municipal Committee in Kargil for their dedication to maintaining cleanliness and encouraged students to act as ambassadors of the campaign, spreading the message within their communities. Qadri stressed the importance of responsibility and behavioural change as key elements in sustaining cleanliness practices.
Administrator MC-Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho, also addressed the gathering, explaining that this year’s ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign aims to increase public awareness around sanitation and waste management. “Each year, the campaign focuses on various aspects of cleanliness, including waste segregation, hygiene promotion, and public sanitation,” Kacho said, noting that the initiative is a crucial part of Kargil’s long-term commitment to a healthier environment.
Kacho also spoke on the importance of reducing plastic usage and encouraged participants to reuse materials like plastic waste for creating art. He urged everyone to carry their own bags when shopping, promoting the idea of personal responsibility in reducing environmental harm. The Administrator further praised RD&PRD-Ladakh’s initiatives in setting up waste segregation sheds in rural areas, which have significantly improved the region’s cleanliness efforts.
Councilor Baroo-Minji, Advocate Khadim Hussain, echoed these sentiments, urging citizens to cooperate and participate in the cleanliness campaign, spreading Mahatma Gandhi’s message of a clean and healthy nation.
The event began with a welcome address by Executive Officer MC-Kargil, Razia Bano, who introduced the campaign’s three pillars: ‘Swachhata Ki Bhagidari’ (Public Participation and Advocacy), ‘Sampoorna Swachhta’ (Total Cleanliness), and ‘Safaimitra Suraksha Shivir’ (Health and Safety for Sanitation Workers).
To conclude the day’s activities, a rally and cleanliness drive were held, starting from Auditorium Hall to the MC Yard, involving employees of MC-Kargil, RD&PRD-Kargil, students, and members of transport unions. The drive was aimed at spreading awareness and instilling a sense of responsibility for cleanliness among the local population.
The event saw participation from prominent officials, including Director RD&PRD-Ladakh, Syed Sajjad Qadri, Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Suhail Ahmed, and other key stakeholders from the municipal and education sectors.
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign slated for the official launch on September 17, will involve a series of events and activities aimed at promoting cleanliness across residential areas, public spaces, markets, schools, hospitals, and government offices throughout the district.
