*Zero Waste – Swachh Cultural Fest: A Vibrant Celebration of Cleanliness, Creativity, and Community Spirit in Chandigarh by MCC*
*Chandigarh, September 27:-* As a tribute to the unwavering dedication of the city’s Safai Mitras and in honor of Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings on sanitation, the Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh hosted the Zero Waste – Swachh Cultural Fest under the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign at the Underpass, Sector 17.
The event emphasized the importance of Swabhav Swachhata and Sanskaar Swachhata as guiding principles for a cleaner, healthier India. Joint Commissioners Ms. Isha Kamboj and Ms. Shashi Vasundhara along with SBM Brand Ambassador Sh. Praveen Duggal , Superintending Engineer Horticulture Sh. K.P. Singh and other MCC officials, attended the celebration.
The fest featured a Waste to Art exhibition, where Swachhata Champions—students committed to cleanliness—showcased creative works promoting the importance of sanitation through art. Attendees also explored the Kalasagar Zone, displaying RRR (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) products by State Awardee Artist Sh. Vijay Goel. A dedicated PRARAMBH stall, featuring eco-friendly items created by women’s self-help groups, was installed under the convergence of the SBM mission and NULM, encouraging citizens to adopt eco-friendly products and promote community empowerment. An informative stall by the CPCC further highlighted various city cleanliness and sanitation initiatives.
The celebrations began with a Vandana performed by MCC’s B&R staff, followed by a series of cultural performances. Students from St. Joseph’s School performed a Nukkad Natak on the theme of cleanliness, while students from GHS-46 presented dance performances. A group song was performed by students of GMSSS-37/B, and a mentor along with students from GHS-46 recited a poem on the importance of Swachhata. The fest also featured a Rajasthani dance by students of Ankur School, Sector 14. The finale, Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata, was a collaborative performance with NHPC, Regional Office, Chandigarh.
MC Commissioner Sh. Vinay Pratap Singh, IAS, remarked on the occasion, that the MCC celebrates Swachhata Hi Seva, a major movement that began on September 17 and will continue until October 2. He emphasized that Swachhata Hi Seva is not merely an initiative but a movement that requires active participation from everyone. He stressed that cleanliness is a collective responsibility, where even the smallest efforts contribute to achieving the larger goal.
He further urged everyone to pledge to keep their surroundings clean, inspire others to adopt better sanitation practices, reduce waste, and embrace a zero-waste lifestyle. He highlighted the crucial role of community participation in fostering a culture of cleanliness and ownership, adding, “Together, we can cultivate a sense of responsibility towards maintaining a clean and healthy environment.”
The Zero Waste – Swachh Cultural Fest served as a token of gratitude to all sanitation workers, citizens, NGOs, and government bodies for their support and participation. Special recognition was given to the city’s youth, the Swachhata Champions, for their enthusiasm and contributions.
The Commissioner also invited all citizens to join a mass cleanliness drive on September 30 at Apni Mandi, Sector 34, starting at 6 AM. “Let us unite under Swachhata Hi Seva—take part in the events, volunteer your time, and share your ideas. Together, we can transform our surroundings and foster a sense of community pride.”
Let’s make this journey meaningful by showing our commitment to cleanliness and sustainability. Together, we can build a clean, healthy, and vibrant future.
