Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, chaired a high-level meeting with State Urban Development Ministers, Principal Secretaries, and State Mission Directors to review preparations for the Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign. The nationwide cleanliness campaign will be observed from September 17 to October 17, 2026, with the theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat' emphasizing collective participation and shared responsibility.
The campaign's key focus areas include transformation of Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) and high-footfall public places, Swachh Paathshala - Yuva for Swachhata, SafaiMitra Suraksha Evam Samman Shivirs for sanitation worker welfare, Jan Bhagidari for Swachhata, and Swachhata se Samriddhi initiatives focusing on circular economy and Waste-to-Wealth programs.
States/UTs were urged to ensure extensive citizen participation and visible cleanliness outcomes, with state departments taking lead in cleanliness drives across office premises, tourist spots, and water bodies. The Minister called for citizens to begin the campaign from their homes on September 17 by cleaning their homes and lighting a diya symbolizing clean homes and positive energy.
The campaign connects with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17 and his 25 years of public service, while September 25 (Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's birthday) will focus on cleanliness drives with emphasis on inclusivity and social welfare. October 1 will feature nationwide 'Shramdaan for Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath' with engagement of youth and sportspersons through State Education and Sports Departments.
On October 2 (Swachch Bharat Diwas), special council meetings and cleanliness drives will be organized by ULBs at public places, along with tree plantation activities under 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam'. October 7 will mark special programs commemorating the Prime Minister's 25 years of public service. The campaign officially concludes on October 17, but states are urged to maintain the cleanliness momentum throughout the year.