Bhubaneswar: The Department of Youth Affairs has launched the Swachhta Hi Seva campaign for 2024, a nationwide cleanliness drive that runs from September 17 to October 2. With the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata,” the campaign aims to instill a deep sense of environmental responsibility among India’s youth, with volunteers from the MY Bharat initiative spearheading the effort. The campaign will culminate on October 2, 2024, with the observance of Swachh Bharat Diwas, celebrating Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a cleaner, greener India.
Odisha
The campaign was formally inaugurated on September 17, 2024, by Hon’ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. On the very first day, youth volunteers from across the country made a significant impact, collecting 1,75,627 kilograms of single-use plastic from 1,562 villages, demonstrating the scale and enthusiasm behind the initiative.
Madhya Pradesh
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized the importance of youth participation in the campaign, stating, “The Swachhta Hi Seva campaign is not just an initiative; it’s a movement that empowers young Indians to take ownership of their environment. MY Bharat will play a pivotal role, with youth volunteers driving the movement forward, fostering a culture of cleanliness.”
Maharashtra
As of September 19, 2024, over 8 lakh MY Bharat volunteers have actively engaged in the campaign, clearing more than 12 lakh kilograms of waste from villages, community centers, and public spaces. More than 7,000 villages, 450 Amrit Sarovars, and various historical and public spaces have been cleaned, showcasing the transformative power of collective action.
Focus on Public Spaces
Throughout the campaign, a special focus has been placed on the removal of single-use plastics from railway tracks, bus stands, markets, and heritage sites. Volunteers are working across institutional and public premises to ensure proper disposal of plastic waste and to promote sustainable practices.
Uttar Pradesh & Kerala
The 15-day drive will conclude on October 2, 2024, with large-scale clean-up activities in coastal areas and beaches. The MY Bharat platform has created an interactive window where youth participants can share photos and videos of their work, reflecting the campaign’s spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari se Jan Andolan’—a people’s movement born from collective responsibility.
The Swachhta Hi Seva campaign has emerged as a powerful symbol of youth-driven change, as young Indians unite to shape a cleaner, more sustainable future. Through their tireless efforts, they are setting an example for future generations to follow.
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