Ministry of Earth Sciences Launches Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2024 with Focus on Cleanliness and Environmental Stewardship

New Delhi: The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has kicked off its Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign at its headquarters in Prithvi Bhavan, New Delhi. Running from September 17 to October 2, 2024, the campaign is part of a nationwide initiative led by the Government of India to promote cleanliness and public participation under the Swachh Bharat Mission. The theme for this year’s activities is Swabhav Swachhta, Sanskar Swachhta, emphasizing personal responsibility and cleanliness as a cultural value.

The campaign started with the administering of the Swachhata pledge by Secretary of MoES, Dr. M Ravichandran, to MoES officials and staff. This marks the beginning of a series of activities aimed at encouraging mass awareness, collective action, and environmental stewardship.

Key Activities for Swachhata Hi Seva 2024

As part of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024, MoES has outlined several events to highlight the importance of cleanliness:

• On September 20, 2024, MoES officials will participate in a human chain formation to symbolize unity in the fight for a cleaner environment.
• A tree plantation drive will take place on September 23, 2024, at MoES premises, promoting voluntarism under the theme of Swacchata ki Bhagidari.
• The ministry will distribute raincoats to housekeeping staff and organize preventive health check-ups under the Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs for MoES housekeeping staff on September 25, 2024.
• Daily beautification efforts, including deep cleaning of MoES offices and enhancing the globe selfie-point at Lodhi Road, will be conducted throughout the campaign.

A major highlight of the SHS 2024 campaign is its observance at India’s research stations in the polar regions, including Himadri in the Arctic, and Bharati and Maitri in Antarctica. MoES will also extend its cleanliness drive to its ocean research vessels, aligning with the goal of achieving Sampoorna Swachhta (Complete Cleanliness).

Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar Campaign

On September 21, 2024, MoES will lead beach clean-up drives at approximately 80 locations across India’s coastline as part of the Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar campaign. This initiative, which began in 2022, focuses on cleaning up India’s beaches and preserving the marine environment. It represents the ministry’s commitment to environmental responsibility and ensuring safe and clean oceans.

Nationwide Participation and Outreach

In addition to the activities at its headquarters, MoES institutions, regional offices, and affiliated bodies across India will participate in the SHS 2024 campaign. The ministry is also leveraging its social media platforms to encourage public participation, inviting citizens to join the movement and spread awareness about cleanliness and environmental stewardship.