Minister for PHED & Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi, graced the culmination program of Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 as the chief guest at the Capital Convention Centre in Kohima on October 2, 2024.
In his address, Zhimomi highlighted that this is the largest cleanliness campaign in the country and the world, culminating in a significant impact. Since its official launch on October 2, 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission has seen substantial progress in constructing toilets, reducing infant mortality rates, saving the lives of children and women, and implementing solid and liquid waste management systems. As of September 2024, Nagaland has 747 villages, of which 406 are Open Defecation Free (ODF) villages, 39 are model villages, and 302 are rising villages. He emphasized that every individual shares equal responsibility for the cleanliness campaign and making our environment clean for everyone.
Zhimomi appealed to the gathering and the people of the state to cooperate with the relevant departments and the government to effectively change mindsets and make Nagaland a safer place. He also thanked and congratulated the Urban Development Department, PHED, municipal councils, town councils, block levels, and villages for their contributions and support in various capacities, which have led to the best outcomes for the holistic mission. Zhimomi presented awards to all the awardees.
Highlights of the program included an acknowledgment and presentation of the SHS 2024 Nagaland journey by Mission Director of SBM-U, Kezhochole Rhetso, a special performance by Keneisedenuo & Sisters, and Kekhokhrie SHG. The Urban Development Department awarded honors for Best Waste-to-Art, Best Transformed/Beautified CTU, Best Resourceful ULB, and Best Performing ULB.
T Lanusenla Longkumer, Chief Executive Officer of KMC, also awarded certificates to 16 successful participants representing various schools and colleges who supported this campaign. The vote of thanks was delivered by Er Gwatilo Tep, Mission Director of SBM-G.
The program was chaired by Kekhrievor Kevichusa, Commissioner & Secretary of UDD&DMA. Advisors A Pangjung Jamir, Er Kropol Vitsu, and Sethrongkyu also attended the event.