Ujjain: President of India, Droupadi Murmu, attended and addressed the Safai Mitra Sammelan in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, today, September 19, 2024. On this occasion, she also laid the foundation stone for the much-anticipated Indore-Ujjain Six Lane Road Project, marking a major infrastructural development for the region.
In her address, President Murmu emphasized the crucial role played by Safai Mitras, calling them the “front-line sanitation warriors” who work tirelessly to protect the public from diseases and health risks. She credited them for the significant achievements in cleanliness at local, state, and national levels, stating, “The biggest credit for our cleanliness achievements goes to our Safai Mitras.”
Focus on Safety and Welfare of Safai Mitras
The President stressed the importance of ensuring the safety, dignity, and welfare of Safai Mitras. She highlighted ongoing efforts by the government to replace manual scavenging with mechanical cleaning systems, ensuring that manholes are gradually transformed into machine-holes. Various welfare schemes by the central and state governments are being extended to Safai Mitras, and health check-up facilities are now available to them through Safai Mitra Suraksha Camps.
She also expressed her happiness that many cities in Madhya Pradesh have been declared “Safai Mitra Surakshit” cities, a testament to the state’s commitment to sanitation workers’ safety.
Mission for Total Cleanliness
Reflecting on the broader goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission, which is in its second phase and will continue until 2025, the President reiterated the need for total cleanliness across India. She called for national efforts in solid and liquid waste management, while maintaining the country’s “open defecation free” status.
Promoting Cleanliness as a National Value
President Murmu highlighted the ongoing national campaign spreading the message of “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata” (Cleanliness in Nature, Cleanliness in Culture). She commended citizens across India for pledging to serve the nation by eliminating litter and promoting cleanliness in every street and village. She expressed confidence that the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi related to cleanliness will continue to inspire the Swachh Bharat Mission.
The President concluded by urging everyone to take a pledge for a clean, healthy, and developed India, emphasizing that small steps towards cleanliness will contribute to making the entire country cleaner and healthier.
Infrastructural Development: Indore-Ujjain Six Lane Road Project
In addition to her address at the Safai Mitra Sammelan, President Murmu laid the foundation stone for the Indore-Ujjain Six Lane Road Project, a major infrastructure initiative that will improve connectivity and support the economic development of the region. This project is expected to bolster transportation efficiency between two major cities of Madhya Pradesh, further facilitating trade and commerce.
