Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign launched with focus on youth and student participation

Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil and Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu addressed the curtain-raiser event for 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' in New Delhi. The campaign, starting September 17, aims to strengthen collective efforts toward cleanliness across the nation.

The theme for this year is 'Swachhata mein Sahbhag; Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat'. The ministers emphasized that cleanliness has transformed into a national movement driven by public participation. They appealed to citizens to actively contribute to this shared responsibility.

The campaign rests on five pillars, including the rejuvenation of public spaces, the 'Swachh Pathshala' initiative for youth, honoring sanitation workers, public engagement, and 'Waste to Wealth' programs. These activities are designed to raise awareness about waste management and hygiene.

Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal has urged states to participate enthusiastically. He requested citizens to begin by cleaning their homes on September 17 and to join the nationwide one-hour 'Shramdaan' on October 1.

On October 2, 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' will be marked by special Gram Sabhas in rural areas and council meetings in urban regions. A large-scale plantation drive under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative will also take place on this day.

Through initiatives like 'Sports for Swachhata', the government aims to connect children and youth with the message of cleanliness. The goal is to ensure that hygiene becomes a permanent national resolve rather than just a temporary program.

The campaign's logo, theme, and anthem were also launched during the event. Citizens are encouraged to share their activities using the hashtag #SHS2026 to help spread the message of cleanliness widely.