Under the leadership of Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav IAS, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), in collaboration with M.A.M. College Jammu, carried out a focused sanitation drive in Ward No. 19. The initiative was part of the ongoing “Har Shaniwar Swachhta Tyohar” campaign which encourages regular and active public participation in keeping the city clean.
Students and faculty members from M.A.M. College participated enthusiastically alongside the JMC sanitation team and the Swaaha IEC Executive. Their collective effort reflected a strong sense of responsibility towards their surroundings.
Sanitation Officer Mr. Arun Nayar and Sanitary Inspector Mr. Sunny Khokhar were also present and provided active on-ground support throughout the drive.
The event served as a reminder that consistent and collaborative efforts between citizens and civic authorities can lead to visible improvements in cleanliness at the local level. It also helped spread awareness about the importance of routine sanitation and community-driven action.
In the heart of Housing Colony, Ward No. 17, Udhampur, a quiet but powerful change is taking shape. On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Urban Local Body (ULB) Udhampur carried out a unique initiative titled “Plastic Bhiksha” a door-to-door plastic collection drive that turned ordinary households into active participants in the fight against plastic pollution.
While the world speaks of ending plastic use in grand conferences and international summits, Udhampur chose to act locally and meaningfully—with its people, for its environment.
What is “Plastic Bhiksha”?
Traditionally, the word Bhiksha refers to a sacred offering. Borrowing from that sentiment, this initiative transformed the idea into a symbol of environmental responsibility. Here, households offered their plastic waste to door-to-door sanitation workers not as garbage, but as a step toward positive change.
The drive aimed to collect single-use plastics directly from the source homes before they found their way into drains, roadsides or landfills. It was more than just a collection effort; it was a call to conscience.
Community Support: The Heart of the Initiative
One of the most encouraging aspects of the Plastic Bhiksha drive was the overwhelming cooperation of the residents. Locals came forward with bags of sorted plastic waste, expressing genuine concern for their surroundings. Many were already storing plastic separately, showing a level of awareness that speaks volumes about the community’s readiness to embrace sustainability.
It wasn’t just a municipal drive it was a people’s movement, led by everyday citizens and supported by a dedicated team of sanitation workers.
Why It Matters ;
Promotes Source Segregation: By encouraging households to store and hand over plastic separately, the drive reinforced the habit of waste segregation at source a fundamental pillar of effective waste management.
Empowers Sanitation Workers: The sanitation team played a vital role not just collecting waste but educating and engaging with residents, creating a stronger sense of community ownership and respect for their contribution.
Encourages Behavioural Change: Campaigns like this aren’t just about cleaning today they’re about building habits for tomorrow. When people separate and store plastic, they also start thinking before using it.
Contributes to Cleanliness and Resource Recovery: With cleaner streets and sorted plastic waste ready for recycling, the drive ensured that plastic didn’t just disappear from view it was prepared for a new life through proper processing.
Conclusion
“Plastic Bhiksha” is not just a campaign it’s a mindset. It proves that solutions to global problems often begin at home, with simple acts and sincere participation. Udhampur’s example reminds us that sustainability is not a choice for tomorrow it’s a responsibility we must carry out today. Let this drive become a regular ritual in every neighbourhood a gesture of goodwill, not just to the environment, but to future generations.
In an inspiring celebration of creativity, awareness and responsibility, Solace International School, Pulwama, recently hosted a unique event that turned heads and transformed perceptions the “Waste to Wonder” competition. With over 120 enthusiastic students, dedicated school staff and the tireless sanitary team participating, the event was a true testament to the power of community and conscious living.This wasn’t just an art competition it was a movement. A movement that highlighted how waste, often seen as useless or ugly, could be reshaped into items of beauty, utility and value.
The competition brought forward a powerful message waste can be wealth. Students showcased innovative products made from discarded materials, demonstrating how creativity can transform everyday trash into market-worthy items. When waste is reused or upcycled, it not only reduces the volume of garbage but can also contribute to the economy. With less dependency on raw resources and more focus on recycling, such initiatives can even play a small role in boosting our GDP.
Another theme that shone throughout the event was a return to our roots. The participants beautifully echoed the wisdom of age-old practices using clay pots, copper vessels and steel bottles instead of disposable plastic. These habits, once considered outdated, are now proving to be more sustainable and healthier. Through this competition, the school reignited a cultural consciousness that embraces eco-friendly living as a way of life.
Our planet is suffocating under the weight of waste. The event served as a wake-up call, especially for the younger generation, about the urgent need to reduce waste to protect our ecosystems. From polluted rivers to dying forests, the impact of unmanaged trash is undeniable. Through the thoughtful exhibits, students reminded us that every reused item is a step toward healing the Earth.
One of the often overlooked consequences of excessive waste is the burden it places on landfills. Overflowing dumpsites not only consume precious land but also release harmful toxins into the soil and air. Projects like “Waste to Wonder” show how reducing waste at the source can lighten this burden and lead to a cleaner, safer environment.
Beyond aesthetics, waste has a direct impact on health. Stagnant garbage becomes a breeding ground for disease-spreading vectors like mosquitoes and flies. The competition’s message was loud and clear: A cleaner environment is a healthier environment. By reducing waste, we reduce the risk of vector-borne diseases and create spaces that are safe and pleasant for everyone.
One of the more scientific takeaways from the event was the importance of reducing BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand) in our water bodies. High BOD levels, often caused by decaying waste, deplete oxygen in water, harming aquatic life. By managing waste better, we can protect rivers, lakes, and the rich biodiversity that lives within them.
The “Waste to Wonder” competition at Solace International School wasn’t just an event it was an awakening. It taught that sustainability isn’t just a global challenge; it starts right at home, in schools and within young minds ready to take charge.
In every painted bottle, reused cardboard sculpture and every thoughtful conversation sparked during the event, there was a clear message: Waste is only Waste if we Waste its potential.
Here’s to a greener, cleaner and more conscious future one creative step at a time.
In celebration of World Environment Week, a powerful movement began at M.A.M College, Jammu, echoing the vision of a plastic-free city. Spearheaded by the Worthy Commissioner of Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), Dr. Devansh Yadav, IAS, the college hosted a dynamic Sanitation Drive that blended awareness, action and community spirit.
The event unfolded under the dedicated supervision of Dr. Vinod Sharma, Health Officer, JMC, who engaged in a productive discussion with the respected Principal of M.A.M College. Together, they laid the foundation for a concrete action plan to make the campus cleaner, greener and more sustainable setting an example for institutions across the city.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of students under the “Waste to Wonder/Art” campaign. Their creative use of discarded materials turned trash into thought-provoking art, showcasing the power of innovation and sustainability in harmony.
To further strengthen youth engagement, various student groups were formally enrolled in the “Mera Shehar Meri Pehchan” campaign reinforcing a sense of ownership and civic pride among the next generation of changemakers.
The campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from JMC officials, including Sanitation Officer Mr. Arun Nayar and Sanitary Inspector Mr. Sunny Khokhar, along with their hardworking teams. Their energy and presence were instrumental in driving the day’s success.
The event was organized in collaboration with the SWAAHA Resource Management Team, reflecting a growing synergy between civic authorities and community-based organizations working for a cleaner, greener Jammu.
What began as a single campus initiative has now set the tone for a larger movement one that proves real change is possible when leadership, creativity and collective action come together. From discarded waste emerged powerful art. From a college cleanup came a blueprint for sustainable transformation.
Together, they’ve shown that a cleaner city starts with conscious campuses and every small step counts.
In a vibrant step towards environmental responsibility and civic pride, the Municipal Committee Katra recently led a spirited clean-up and beautification drive under the ongoing “Mera Shehar Meri Pehchan” initiative. This effort not only reaffirmed the town’s dedication to cleanliness and sustainability but also brought together the community in a powerful display of collective action.
From bustling markets to busy streets and popular public spots, the campaign transformed key areas of the town through extensive cleanliness activities. Sanitation workers rolled up their sleeves to ensure that no corner was left untouched waste was removed, pathways were cleared and a renewed sense of hygiene and hospitality took root across the townscape. The result: a cleaner, more welcoming Katra for both residents and the thousands of pilgrims and tourists who visit every year.
Taking the mission a step further, the drive also included a tree plantation campaign to green the town and uplift its visual appeal. Saplings were planted in multiple locations with thoughtful measures like installing iron protective cages to safeguard the young trees. This not only strengthens the local green cover but also symbolizes the town’s commitment to long-term environmental health.
The success of this campaign owes much to the combined efforts of dedicated individuals and groups. Supervisors and sanitation teams worked tirelessly on-ground, while the Market Association lent crucial support and coordination. The Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee Katra was also present, actively overseeing the initiative and emphasizing the administration’s commitment to hands-on governance.
A notable contributor to the day’s success was the IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) expert from SWAAHA Resource Management , who engaged with the local community, spreading awareness about the significance of cleanliness, green practices and active civic participation.
Adding inspiration and star power to the initiative, Ritu Thakur, the Swachhata Brand Ambassador of Katra, graced the event as a special guest. Her presence was met with enthusiasm and admiration, reminding everyone that true change begins with individual actions and everyday responsibility.
This vibrant campaign not only beautified the town but also highlighted the deeper purpose of the “Mera Shehar Meri Pehchan” movement to ignite civic pride, promote environmental sustainability and build a future-ready Katra through collective community efforts.
As the town moves forward, this event stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when administration and citizens come together with shared purpose and dedication. With every planted sapling and every swept street, Katra is not just getting cleaner it’s growing stronger.
In our busy lives, we often forget how small actions can bring big changes. But one recent event reminded us of just that. The “Swachhta Darshan Cleanliness Walk” turned into a beautiful example of how a community can come together to care for its surroundings.
United by One Purpose
The walk started from Boys Higher Secondary School, bringing together a mix of people school children full of energy, local residents, volunteers and respected elders from the community. Everyone came with one simple goal, to support cleanliness and build a healthier, greener neighbourhood.
What made this walk even more special was the presence of Mr. Abhinav Sharma, a local face known for working on social issues. He joined the walk not just as a guest, but as someone truly passionate about change. His short but powerful speech encouraged the young participants to take the lead in keeping their areas clean and inspiring others too.
Walking with a Message
The 1.5-kilometer route was filled with purpose. As participants walked holding colourful banners and placards, they shouted slogans that reminded everyone around about the importance of cleanliness, waste segregation and hygiene. The energy was high, the smiles were real and the message was clear “Clean surroundings begin with us.”
Connecting with the Community
The walk was more than just movement it was conversation. Participants took time to speak with local shopkeepers, residents and even passersby. They talked about simple things like not littering, separating dry and wet waste and how every small effort can make a big difference.
It felt like the entire neighbourhood was waking up to the idea that cleanliness is everyone’s job, not just the municipality’s.
Ending with a Promise
The event ended with a small but meaningful ceremony. Everyone gathered together and took a cleanliness pledge promising to keep their homes and streets clean, to avoid plastic waste and to encourage others to do the same. It was a strong moment of togetherness, full of hope and commitment.
More Than Just a Walk
The “Swachhta Darshan Cleanliness Walk” was more than a one-day event. It was a reminder that real change begins when we take that first step. When children, elders, volunteers, and influencers walk together for a cause, they don’t just clean streets they clean mindsets.
And maybe, that’s the most important change of all.
Lakhanpur, May 20, 2025 In a commendable display of community spirit and environmental consciousness, the Municipal Committee (MC) Lakhanpur organized two impactful Information, Education & Communication (IEC) activities aimed at fostering a cleaner and more sustainable town.
1. ‘Bin It to Win It!’: Engaging Young Minds at Government High School
The day commenced with an innovative event titled ‘Bin It to Win It!’ at the Government High School, Lakhanpur. This interactive session combined a quiz and a treasure hunt, ingeniously designed to educate students on the importance of waste segregation.
Students enthusiastically participated, navigating clues and answering questions that emphasized the significance of separating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. The activity not only imparted crucial knowledge but also instilled a sense of responsibility among the young participants.
“It was enlightening to see students so engaged in learning about waste management. Their enthusiasm gives us hope for a cleaner future,” remarked a school faculty member.
2. Community Clean-Up Drive and Beautification at the Main Yard
Later in the day, MC Lakhanpur spearheaded a community clean-up and beautification drive at the town’s main yard. Residents, local shopkeepers and volunteers joined hands to cleanse the area, remove litter and enhance the locale’s aesthetic appeal.
This initiative not only improved the physical environment but also served as a catalyst for community bonding and collective responsibility.
Swaaha Team from Jammu Joins the Initiative
Adding significant value to the day’s events, the SWAAHA Resource Management team from Jammu actively participated in both activities. Known for their expertise in waste management and environmental education, the team conducted informative sessions emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, proper waste disposal and sustainable living practices.
Their engagement provided attendees with practical insights and actionable steps to maintain hygiene and promote environmental sustainability in their daily lives.
Lakhanpur: A Gateway Embracing Green Initiatives
Situated as the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir, Lakhanpur holds a strategic and symbolic position. With a population of approximately 4,000 residents, the town is making commendable strides in environmental stewardship.
These recent activities underscore Lakhanpur’s commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement. By involving both the youth and the broader community, MC Lakhanpur is setting a precedent for other towns to emulate.
Looking Ahead
The success of these initiatives reflects the power of collective action and education in driving environmental change. MC Lakhanpur plans to continue such programs, aiming to instill lasting eco-friendly habits among its residents.
As Lakhanpur continues its journey towards sustainability, the collaborative efforts of its citizens, supported by organizations like Swaaha, serve as a beacon of hope and a model for community-driven environmental initiatives.
There are days that leave you feeling hopeful like something beautiful is quietly taking root in the hearts of our younger generation. 19th May 2025 one such day, when an event titled ‘Waste to Wonder’ brought together creativity, purpose and youthful energy under one roof.
Held under the theme “Scrap to Splendor,” this IEC activity was no ordinary competition. Students from various schools walked in with bags full of what most of us would call “trash” used bottles, broken bangles, newspaper rolls, cardboard, old CDs. But what they created out of it? Pure magic.
From intricately designed pen stands to colourful wall hangings and miniature garden setups made entirely from waste the imagination on display was mind-blowing. You could feel the joy in the air. The kids weren’t just making crafts they were telling stories. Stories of a greener tomorrow, where nothing is truly wasted only reimagined
What made the event even more special was the presence of the Chief Sanitation Officer from Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), who appreciated each participant with a certificate of recognition. It wasn’t just a pat on the back it was a moment of validation for every student who dared to dream differently.
In a heartfelt video message played during the event, the Chief Sanitation Officer spoke about something we often forget that cleanliness doesn’t start from big campaigns, it begins right at home. His words reminded everyone that the real change starts with us. With how we segregate waste, how we reuse and how we teach our children the value of responsible living.
More than a competition, Waste to Wonder turned into a celebration of innovation, of awareness and of a collective desire to protect the planet. It was proof that when we place trust in the younger generation and give them the tools, they will surprise us with heart, hands, and hope.
As the day ended, everyone walked away with more than just certificates and crafts. They carried with them a renewed sense of purpose a belief that even the smallest efforts matter. And maybe next time we’re about to throw something away, we’ll pause and ask ourselves:
The campaign, themed “Swachhtantra – Gantantra Ki Shaan, Swachhta Se Bane Mahaan” under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0, marks a major push toward fostering civic responsibility and engaging communities in maintaining a cleaner, healthier environment.
The Campaign was launched by Ms. Mandeep Kaur (IAS), Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Housing & Urban Development Department, J&K with the commitment to cleanliness and sustainability through the Swachhta activities from 21st to 24th January, 2025 for pre-Republic Day celebrations. This Campaign underscored the importance of such initiatives in promoting not just a cleaner city but also a more responsible and engaged citizens of J&K in community-based Swachhta initiatives (Jan Andolan).
Through a series of well-coordinated activities, the campaign sought to encourage community participation, raise awareness about cleanliness, and motivate citizens to contribute towards the larger goal of a Swachh Jammu & Kashmir. This pre-Republic Day cleanliness drive has brought together local residents, school children, and various organizations to collectively work towards a brighter, cleaner future for the region.
Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) organized engaging and thought-provoking street plays to promote cleanliness and responsible civic behaviour. These performances emphasized crucial themes such as source segregation of waste, the ban on single-use plastic (SUP), and the conservation of water bodies. Conducted in marketplaces, residential areas, and other public spaces, the plays effectively captured public attention, inspiring community participation and behavioural change. By blending entertainment with awareness, this initiative reinforced the significance of sustainable practices, encouraging citizens to adopt eco-friendly habits for a cleaner and healthier environment.
