Health Ministry Organizes Shramdaan Under 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' Campaign

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare conducted a voluntary cleanliness drive, or 'Shramdaan', at Kartavya Bhawan in New Delhi as part of the 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' campaign. The event was led by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research and Director General of the ICMR, with several senior ministry officials in attendance.

Senior officials, including Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary and DG of NACO, and Dr. Lavnish G. Krishna, DGHS, participated actively in the drive. All participants embraced the theme of 'Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath' to reiterate their commitment to cleanliness.

Addressing the media, Dr. Rajiv Bahl stated that it is essential to make cleanliness a continuous collective effort. He urged citizens to contribute actively to maintaining a clean and healthy environment in their surroundings. He emphasized that this is not merely an institutional duty but also a social commitment.

Aradhana Patnaik highlighted the importance of 'Jan Bhagidari' or public participation during the event. She noted that responsible behavior from every individual is mandatory to create clean and healthy public spaces. She underscored the need for collective efforts at the community level to ensure sustained cleanliness.

This campaign is a significant initiative by the ministry toward achieving the goals of 'Swachh Bharat'. The ministry clarified that there is a deep connection between cleanliness, public health, and a healthy lifestyle. The primary objective of such events is to spread awareness about waste management and involve citizens in cleanliness efforts.

The ministry emphasized that continuous awareness and active participation are required to build clean and sustainable public spaces. This program was organized to encourage citizens across the country to contribute to cleanliness initiatives.