The Ministry of Panchayati Raj actively observed the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2026 campaign from September 17 to October 2, 2026, under the theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag; Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat'. The campaign was conducted in close collaboration with the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), with a Joint Advisory issued to mobilize all stakeholders including Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Local Bodies.
The key focus areas of SHS-2026 included Transformation of Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) and Clean Public Places, Swachh Paathshala – Yuva for Swachhata, SafaiMitra Suraksha Evam Samman Shivir, Jan Bhagidari for Swachhata, and Swachhata se Samriddhi. Panchayati Raj Institutions played a central role in drawing out local participation and sustaining impact through regular sanitation activities.
Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh and Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel reached out to the masses through various mediums to spread the message of cleanliness as a way of life. Efforts to sensitize citizens about the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, gathered momentum during the campaign.
On Swachh Bharat Diwas (October 2, 2026), Special Gram Sabhas were held across the country alongside the People's Plan Campaign, Sabki Yojana SabkaVikas, where all stakeholders were made aware about the SWM Rules, 2026. Plantation drives under 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' were also taken up. Union Minister Singh participated in a cleanliness drive in Lakhisarai district of Bihar and planted a sapling.
Earlier in the campaign, Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Dr. Vineet Joshi, administered the Swachhata Pledge to all officers and staff. The Ministry also conducted Shramdaan at a public space opposite Prachin Hanuman Mandir, Connaught Place on October 1, 2026, to promote cleanliness and acknowledge the contribution of Safai Mitras and Safai Karamcharis.
This content may not be financially relevant.