On October 2, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta revealed that thousands of students from 30 colleges within Delhi University will gather to take a cleanliness pledge on October 18. This initiative aims at promoting the conservation and cleanliness of the Yamuna River. The announcement was made during the launch of the ‘Main Bhi Yamuna Prahari’ app, which is part of the ongoing Seva Sankalp Campaign.

Gupta emphasised the necessity for collective responsibility, stating that cleaning the Yamuna cannot rely solely on government actions. She called on students, educators, and the wider community to actively participate in this initiative. The Chief Minister encouraged attendees to disseminate the message within their families and local communities to foster greater involvement.

Government Initiatives for River Cleaning

Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra reported that over Rs 3,000 crore has been allocated for the cleanup efforts of the Yamuna. He mentioned that significant work is currently underway to prevent sewage from contaminating the river, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns in the region.

This campaign aligns with the broader focus on cleanliness and civic engagement surrounding Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2. Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy has initiated a nationwide cleanliness drive that will last for 30 days. This event is intended to run from Gandhi Jayanti to the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31. Reddy urged citizens, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations, and various organisations to join the Swachh Bharat mission during this period.

During a press conference, Reddy expressed the importance of unity in taking up the cleanliness campaign. He asserted that participation from all sectors of society is essential for a successful initiative, thereby encouraging widespread engagement across India.

Local Participation in Cleanliness Drives

In addition to the initiatives discussed at the national level, local leaders are also being proactive. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini took part in a cleanliness drive in Gurugram, appealing to residents to maintain the city’s cleanliness. Similarly, a Swachhathon 2026 event was held in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, to mark Gandhi Jayanti, further illustrating the community’s involvement in the Swachhata Hi Seva programme.

On October 2, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in New Delhi, honouring him on his 157th birth anniversary. Modi also attended a Sarva-Dharma Prarthana at Gandhi’s memorial. Furthermore, he paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat, marking the significance of this day not only for Gandhi but for the greater ideals of peace and unity.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also participated in the Sarva-Dharma Prarthana and paid respects to Shastri, showcasing the commitment of local leadership to honouring the principles set forth by these historical figures. The collective efforts underline a community-focused approach to correspondence with the ideals of cleanliness and ethical responsibility.

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