The Ministry of Minority Affairs observed Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 in New Delhi on September 30, 2026, with Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju presiding over the event. The program included three main components: administration of the Swachhata Pledge, Shramdaan (voluntary labor), and a tree plantation drive.
Minister Rijiju emphasized that cleanliness must be treated as a continuous responsibility rather than a one-time exercise, stressing that while existing waste needs cleaning, equal emphasis must be placed on preventing littering through awareness creation. He explicitly stated that cleanliness is a collective responsibility that should not be viewed solely as the duty of sanitation workers. The Minister referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, noting that the Swachh Bharat Mission has generated widespread cleanliness awareness across India, and called for sustained public participation to make cleanliness part of everyday behavior.
During the pledge administration, participants resolved to remain personally committed to cleanliness, devote time to Shramdaan, begin cleanliness efforts from their homes and workplaces, and encourage others to contribute toward building a cleaner India. The pledge also recalled Mahatma Gandhi's vision of a clean and developed India.
Linking cleanliness with environmental conservation, Rijiju highlighted the Prime Minister's 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, which encourages every individual to plant at least one tree in their mother's name. He noted this campaign has gained international recognition, mentioning that during a recent visit to Belgrade, European ministers were aware of this Indian initiative.
The event also marked the culmination of Hindi Pakhwada observed by the Ministry, where Rijiju emphasized the importance of Hindi and other Indian languages, advocating for pride in one's mother tongue while respecting India's linguistic diversity. The Principal of Dyal Singh College also spoke, highlighting the importance of individual civic behavior in sustaining cleanliness and calling for active citizen contribution to the national clean India resolve. The program reflected the Ministry's continued commitment to promoting cleanliness, environmental conservation, civic responsibility, and public participation in furtherance of the Swachh Bharat vision.