The Swachh Diwali Shubh Diwali campaign, initiated in 2024, aligns the festive spirit of Diwali with the principles of cleanliness and community engagement. With the launch of this initiative, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) aims to extend the ethos of cleanliness beyond individual households to encompass neighbourhoods and cities, reinforcing the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a clean environment.
Context of the Campaign
The campaign was launched against the backdrop of Diwali, a festival that traditionally emphasises light, joy, and togetherness. Union Minister Shri M.L. Khattar brought into light the need for cleanliness during this period, asserting that the spirit of Diwali should inspire actions that contribute to a cleaner nation. The campaign runs from October 28 to November 3, 2024, coinciding with the festive preparations.
Core Objectives
The Swachh Diwali campaign focuses on several key objectives: – Transformation of Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) – These units are decisive in enhancing urban cleanliness and are targeted for special attention during the campaign. – General Cleanliness Drives – Local communities are encouraged to participate in cleanliness drives before and after Diwali, encouraging a sense of shared responsibility. – Public Engagement with RRR Centres – The campaign promotes the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, encouraging citizens to donate old items and engage in sustainable practices. – Swachhata Mein Bhaagidari – This aspect encourages local participation in cleanliness initiatives, such as establishing Swachh Food Streets and advocating for a plastic-free Diwali.
Community Involvement
The campaign encourages community participation, urging citizens to extend their festive joy to underprivileged areas such as urban slums and orphanages. This initiative aims to rekindle the festive spirit among those who may not have the means to celebrate, thereby encouraging a sense of unity and compassion.
Cultural Significance
Cleanliness during Diwali is deeply rooted in Indian culture. Traditionally, homes are cleaned and decorated to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to bless only those who maintain cleanliness. The campaign seeks to reinforce this cultural practice, linking it with broader cleanliness goals.
Digital Engagement
The launch event featured the unveiling of the Swabhav Swachhata Portal and a campaign dashboard, enhancing digital engagement and tracking the progress of cleanliness initiatives. The digital platform aims to facilitate community participation and provide resources for effective waste management.
Recognition of Efforts
The campaign also acknowledges the contributions of various states and cities in promoting cleanliness. The recognition of outstanding efforts during the Swachhata Hi Seva fortnight puts stress on the importance of sustained commitment to cleanliness beyond the festive season.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Swachh Diwali campaign in promoting urban cleanliness.
- How does the Swachhata Hi Seva initiative complement the Swachh Diwali campaign?
- Examine the cultural implications of cleanliness during Diwali in the context of Indian society.
- What role does community participation play in the success of cleanliness campaigns like Swachh Diwali?
- Assess the impact of digital tools on public engagement in cleanliness initiatives.
