Preparations intensify for Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign, call for nationwide participation
The government has launched the 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' campaign, focusing primarily on youth and students. Based on the theme 'Participation in Cleanliness; Clean India, Developed India', the campaign will run from September 17 to October 2, emphasizing voluntary labor and public participation.
Preparations are in full swing across the country for the upcoming 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' campaign. Union Ministers C. R. Patil, Tokhan Sahu, and V. Somanna have called for active participation from citizens in this nationwide initiative. This year's campaign will commence on September 17 and continue until October 2.
The central theme for this year's campaign is 'Participation in Cleanliness; Clean India, Developed India'. Its objective is to establish cleanliness as a shared responsibility and to primarily involve youth and students in the process. The Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs have jointly outlined the program.
Union Minister C. R. Patil stated that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, cleanliness has now become a mass movement. Citing examples from Navsari and Surat, he explained how collective efforts can promote hygiene. He appealed to every citizen to join this campaign.
Union Minister Manohar Lal, through a virtual message, urged states to participate with enthusiasm. He placed special emphasis on the nationwide 'Shramdaan' (voluntary labor) on October 1 and the organization of cleanliness activities in public spaces on the occasion of Swachh Bharat Diwas on October 2.
The five key pillars of the campaign include the rejuvenation of public spaces, engaging youth in cleanliness, honoring sanitation workers, public participation, and promoting 'Waste to Wealth'. Through these activities, efforts will be made to develop sustainable habits of cleanliness.
Under the 'Swachh Pathshala-Yuva for Swachhata' initiative, students will be made aware of topics such as solid waste management and water harvesting. Additionally, through activities like 'Sports for Swachhata', the message of cleanliness will be taken to the common people through sports.
On October 1, from 8 AM to 9 AM, a collective 'Shramdaan' will be organized under the theme 'One Day, One Hour, Together'. On October 2, special Gram Sabhas and council meetings will be held where a cleanliness pledge will be taken, and tree plantation drives will be conducted.
The campaign's logo, theme, and portal have also been launched. The government has requested citizens to share their activities using the hashtags #SHS2026 and #SwachhataHiSeva2026, in order to further strengthen the resolve for cleanliness.