Defence Minister Leads Special Cleanliness Drive Under ‘Swachhotsav 2025’; Flags Off Safai Run and Urges Citizens to Embrace Cleanliness as a Way of Life.
New Delhi:
In a powerful demonstration of the national commitment to cleanliness and sustainability, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spearheaded a special drive under the ‘Swachhotsav 2025’ initiative at the Army Headquarters Unit Run Canteen today. The event, themed ‘Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’, was held as part of the broader ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, running from September 17 to October 2 across the Ministry of Defence.
The drive underscored the collective power of citizens, the armed forces, and youth in creating a clean and green India. It also marked a key moment in aligning national efforts with the festive spirit and the overarching vision of a cleaner and more conscious nation.
A Day of Action and Inspiration
During the event, the Minister administered the ‘Swachhata Sankalp’, reaffirming his personal commitment to cleanliness. He honoured Safai Mitras—the frontline sanitation workers—for their unwavering service and dedication to public hygiene. In a symbolic move, he also took part in a tree-planting ceremony, promoting environmental responsibility and the concept of a zero-waste ecosystem.
The event’s highlight was the flag-off of the ‘Safai Run’, featuring 100 enthusiastic NCC cadets. The run served as a metaphor for the youth leading India’s charge towards cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
Cleanliness: A National Responsibility
Addressing the gathering, the Defence Minister emphasized that cleanliness is not just about physical tidiness but a “philosophy of life”. He described it as a reflection of discipline, responsibility, and national character.
“Clean surroundings promote better health, mental well-being, and inner peace, while unclean environments spread disease and negativity,” he stated. He further highlighted that the concept of cleanliness is deeply rooted in Indian culture, long seen as a hallmark of a civilised and respectful society.
Armed Forces: Leading by Example
The Minister praised the armed forces for setting an example, announcing that all military camps are now open-defecation free, a testament to their discipline and the dedication of the civilian workforce. He stressed that a clean, healthy, and conscious society is not just desirable but essential for national security.
He echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for making cleanliness a people’s movement, where every citizen plays a proactive role. The Ministry of Defence, he noted, is contributing through initiatives like waste-to-wealth projects, collective drives, and by transforming its offices and camps into model centres of cleanliness.
The cleanliness drive saw high-level participation, reflecting its importance across defence and governance sectors. Attendees included:
- Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
- Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi
- Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh
- Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Dr Niten Chandra
- Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat
- Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Dr Mayank Sharma
- Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and armed forces personnel.
The event concluded with a collective resolve to continue the momentum, inspiring individuals and institutions across the country to treat cleanliness as not just a duty but a way of life.
