The District Administration, in collaboration with the Zunheboto Town Council, celebrated Swachh Bharat Diwas and launched the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA) on October 2 at the Town Hall.
In his keynote address, Keyirangding Hegui, NCS ADC & Administrator ZTC, emphasized the shift in societal values from material possessions to the importance of a clean environment.
Dr Shikato Sema, Senior Specialist at the District Hospital, highlighted a free health camp conducted for sanitation workers on September 30. He urged the district administration to facilitate the generation of Ayushman cards for these workers and their families, reinforcing the motto, “Cleanliness is our habit, our lifestyle.”
Biplap Thakuria, Lead Bank Manager Zunheboto, expressed gratitude toward sanitation workers for their efforts in maintaining a hygienic town. He assured support in opening bank accounts for these workers, enabling them to access various welfare schemes.
The Food and Civil Supplies Department announced that sanitation workers would be eligible for LPG gas connections under different schemes aimed at alleviating economic burdens and saving time.
Er Ichirang Zeliang, Executive Engineer PHED, reminded attendees of Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy, as the program coincided with his birthday. He encouraged a collective effort to transform Zunheboto into a clean town akin to Indore, emphasizing that cleanliness should be a shared responsibility.
In recognition of the cleanliness efforts in the area, three villages were awarded for their initiatives: Ghokishe, Sisulami, and Nikuto, along with recognition for outstanding sanitation workers Mrs Vitoli and Mr Tohuvi Muru.
Councillor Hutoka Zhimo shared insights on the importance of sanitation and the need for communal responsibility in keeping Zunheboto clean.
Deputy Commissioner Rahul Bhanudas Mali underscored the economic benefits of cleanliness, stating, “We have to clean our town to attract tourists and boost revenue.” He urged adherence to the complete ban on single-use plastics, which has a new deadline of October 30.
An awards ceremony followed, recognizing excellence in sanitation efforts. The Best Safai Mitra was awarded to Lal Babu.
Inter-Ward Cleanliness Competition:
· 1st Place: North Point Ward – Rs 20,000
· 2nd Place: Khawoboto Colony – Rs 15,000
· 3rd Place: Old Town and DC Hill Colony
Inter-School/College Model Sanitation Plan Competition:
· 1st Place: Cornerstone School – Rs 20,000
· 2nd Place: Bethany School – Rs 10,000
The program culminated in the launch of PMJUGA, with L Chinglem Konyal, EAC Zunheboto, chairing the event. Keynote speeches were delivered by the Deputy Commissioner and Phoishe Sema, Director of DRDA Zunheboto, with K Herato Sukhalu, Chairperson of ZTC, delivering a vote of thanks.
The event successfully reinforced the importance of sanitation and community involvement, echoing the sentiments of a cleaner and healthier Zunheboto.