Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Concludes Successful Swachhata Pakhwada

New Delhi: The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs marked the culmination of Swachhata Pakhwada, a fortnight-long cleanliness drive, which was celebrated from April 16th to April 30th, 2024. Aligned with the Swachhata Pakhwada Calendar for the year 2024, released by the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Government of India, the initiative aimed to promote cleanliness and hygiene across various sections of the ministry.

The festivities commenced with the administration of the ‘Swachhata Pledge’ by the Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs on April 16th, 2024, setting the tone for the two-week-long campaign.

Throughout Swachhata Pakhwada, the ministry undertook a series of activities aimed at fostering cleanliness both within and outside its premises. Various sections of the ministry engaged in cleanliness drives, reviewed and weeded out old physical files, and identified obsolete items for auction. Additionally, efforts were made to ensure the regular cleaning and maintenance of rooms and appliances in ministry offices located in Samvidhan Sadan.

In an effort to spread awareness and instill a culture of cleanliness, the ministry administered the Swachhata Pledge to students of Kerala Senior Secondary School, Vikaspuri. An essay competition on the theme of cleanliness was also organized in the school, with cash prizes and certificates awarded to the winners.

As the Swachhata Pakhwada drew to a close, the ministry recognized and honored the top three sections that excelled in maintaining cleanliness standards. Addressing the gathering during the prize distribution ceremony, Dr. Satya Prakash, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, emphasized the importance of cleanliness both inwardly and outwardly. Dr. Prakash provided an overview of the various activities undertaken by the ministry during the Pakhwada and urged staff to adopt best practices of cleanliness in all aspects of their lives.

Expressing his satisfaction with the active participation of staff in Swachhata-related activities, Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Umang Narula, reiterated the significance of cleanliness as an integral part of the ministry’s broader goals. He urged employees to maintain the momentum of Swachhata Pakhwada throughout the year, underscoring the importance of sustained efforts towards achieving a cleaner and healthier environment.