Department of Science and Technology Organizes Various Activities Under 'Swachhata Hi Seva-2026' Campaign

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has actively participated in the 'Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2026' campaign. The campaign was launched on September 17, 2026, through the Department of Science and Technology, its autonomous institutions, and the Survey of India offices located across the country. The primary objective of this initiative is to promote public participation in cleanliness, sanitation, the honoring of sanitation workers, and the creation of a healthy environment.

At the start of the campaign on September 18, 2026, the Secretary of the Department administered a cleanliness pledge to the officials. Subsequently, various awareness activities were organized at identified Cleanliness Target Units (CTU), including Technology Bhavan and Vigyan Sadan. Under the nationwide initiative 'One Day, One Hour, Together,' a Shramdaan program was held on October 1, 2026, at Vigyan Sadan in RK Puram, New Delhi. Furthermore, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, the Secretary of the Department led a Shramdaan campaign around Technology Bhavan.

To ensure the welfare and respect of 'Safai Mitras' (sanitation workers), the department took several special steps. On September 23, 2026, a financial awareness session for housekeeping staff, scientists, and officials was organized in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). On September 29, 2026, the Secretary honored 110 Safai Mitras for their significant contributions. On the same day, a health check-up camp was also organized at the DST campus for sanitation workers, outsourced personnel, and staff.

In the fields of environment and education, Secretary Professor Umesh V. Waghmare and other officials carried out a plantation drive on September 24, 2026. To increase awareness, an essay competition on the theme 'Cleanliness: A Responsibility, Not Just a Campaign' was organized on September 28, followed by 'Waste to Art' rangoli, painting, and poster competitions on September 29.

Additionally, Dr. Raghavendra Naik, a scientist from the Ayush Department of the Bureau of Indian Standards, delivered a special lecture on 'Standardization and Research in Ayurveda: Evidence-Based Practice Methods.' To ensure the effective implementation of the entire campaign, Joint Secretary and Nodal Officer Mrs. A. Dhanalakshmi established coordination between autonomous institutions and the Survey of India offices nationwide.