Launches state-level Swachhata Hi Seva campaign
VASCO
Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho on Wednesday called upon people not to view cleanliness as a symbolic gesture but as a lasting habit.
“Swachhata should not be treated as a one-day activity but as a practice woven into our daily lives and passed on to the next generation,” said Godinho, while launching the state-level Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2025 campaign at the Chicalim Panchayat Hall.
The fortnight-long initiative, which runs from September 17 to October 2, will culminate on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti.
This year’s campaign is themed “Swachhotsav”, highlighting clean and green festivities with an emphasis on zero-waste celebrations. The theme encourages blending Goa’s cultural vibrancy with environmental responsibility, setting an example of how festivals can be celebrated without harming nature.
Speaking at the launch, Godinho underlined the importance of sustained cleanliness efforts. “Swachhotsav is about celebrating Goa’s spirit while respecting our surroundings. Our Panchayats are central to this effort, and through them we can set new standards for clean and eco-friendly festivals,” he said.
The event in Chicalim, attended by panchayat representatives from across Goa, marked the curtain raiser for the campaign.
Among those present were Chicalim Sarpanch Kamla Prasad Yadav, Secretary (Panchayats) Chestha Yadav and SBM-G Mission Director Mahadev Araundekar.
As part of SHS 2025, activities will include cleanliness drives, clearing of garbage black spots, and citizen-led initiatives across the state.
A key focus of the campaign will also be the welfare and recognition of sanitation workers, described by Godinho as “the backbone of this mission.”
Calling on panchayats and local bodies to play a proactive role, the minister said, “Our panchayats must mobilise people and lead by example in ensuring clean neighbourhoods, eco-friendly public celebrations, and zero-waste practices. This campaign is not just about cleaning streets but about creating a culture of responsibility.”
He further appealed for citizen participation, noting that community involvement is crucial to making the campaign successful.
“Every citizen has a role to play. If each of us takes ownership of our surroundings, Goa can emerge as a model for the entire country in sustainable celebrations and cleanliness practices,” he said.
The campaign will conclude on October 2, observed as Swachh Bharat Diwas, where Goa will showcase its collective resolve for a cleaner and greener state.
