The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, observed Swachhata Pakhwada from September 1 to 15, 2026, as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. The initiative was conducted in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for "Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat" emphasizing cleanliness, hygiene and collective responsibility towards maintaining clean surroundings.
The program commenced with Secretary Manoj Joshi administering the Swachhata pledge to officers of the Department. Throughout the two-week period, officers and staff participated in cleanliness drives at their workstations and office premises. Senior officers led by Joint Secretary Aman Sharma undertook Shramdaan (voluntary labor) at Janpath Bhawan Market in New Delhi.
The Department conducted a comprehensive review of old and redundant items including furniture, fixtures and electronic equipment for repair, disposal and systematic management. A pest-control drive was also implemented across office premises.
All seven National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs) participated actively with faculty members, students and staff organizing cleanliness drives across campuses. Some NIPER campuses also conducted plantation activities alongside the cleanliness initiatives.
Public Sector Undertakings under the department conducted Swachhata drives at various locations with employee participation. The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) extended the cleanliness campaign to Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country, reinforcing the message that clean surroundings are essential for public health and well-being.
The initiative brought together officers, employees, students, faculty members and others in a collective effort toward cleanliness, reaffirming the spirit of "Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat" and underscoring the importance of sustained participation and responsible practices for creating cleaner workplaces and communities.