The sole aim of the Swachh Bharat Mission is to make a visibly clean India through realizing the aspiration of creating garbage-free cities. While it is necessary to find innovative ways to deal with garbage, its safe disposal, effective waste management, creating wealth out of waste and more, it is also required to strike the right balance and harmony with the environment and natural heritage while we walk our way in the journey of swachhata.Uttar Kannada in Karnataka is striving for exactly that.
Uttara Kannada, a picturesque district nestled in Karnataka is a region of immense tourist and ecological significance. This enchanting district boasts of a diverse landscape, featuring pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea, lush green Western Ghats forests, and meandering rivers. Its ecological importance cannot be overstated, as the Western Ghats within Uttara Kannada are a UNESCO World Heritage site, harboring rich biodiversity and critical ecosystems. Uttara Kannada stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature’s beauty and cultural heritage, drawing tourists and researchers alike to its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant traditions.
Under the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2023 launched by the Centre, the proactive efforts of the Uttar Kannada District ULB officials in organizing a comprehensive cleanliness drive around ecological spots, beaches, mountains, and tourist places yielded desired results. Nearly 1000 citizen volunteers participated in the cleanliness and awareness drives. They are not only addressing the immediate need for cleanliness but also promoting a broader sense of responsibility towards the district’s environment and natural beauty.Engaging local communities, retired teachers, advocates, and students from various backgrounds, such as Yuva Kendra and NCC, highlights the inclusivity and diversity of the initiative. This collective effort demonstrates that cleanliness is not the sole responsibility of any one group but a shared commitment by all stakeholders. Moreover, by bringing together individuals from different sectors as champions of cleanliness, the ULB is fostering a sense of pride and ownership among the people of the district.This was made possible by the tireless efforts of respective ULBs working under the ambit of Swachh Bharat Mission- Urban. To further galvanize a Jan Andolan for swachhata, there’s going to be a mega cleanliness drive held on 1st October 2023.
Therefore, on the 105th episode of Mann Ki Baat,Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for 1 hour of shramdaan for swachhata at 10 am on 1st October by all citizens collectively. He said This mega cleanliness drive calls upon citizens from all walks of life to join in actualcleaning activities at public places. It is noteworthy that the number of people joining the Swachhata Pakhwada has reached 9 crore already and counting.
RKJ/M