In a step towards promoting cleanliness and environmental sustainability, the Government of Tripura has allocated 10% of its budget towards maintaining cleanliness in government offices and other establishments. The decision, announced by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha during the 155th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi, underscores the state’s commitment to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and its goal of becoming a ‘Plastic Mukta’ (plastic-free) state.
The Chief Minister made the announcement while participating in a cleanliness drive in front of Ujjayanta Palace. Dr. Saha urged citizens to refrain from using single-use plastic and maintain cleanliness not only in their surroundings but also in their hearts and minds. “We are working to make Tripura a Plastic Mukta state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised many things, and while everything cannot be achieved in one day, we are moving forward steadily. I ask for everyone’s cooperation,” he said, calling on the people to support the government’s efforts in keeping the state clean.
Highlighting the state’s achievements, Dr. Saha praised the Agartala Municipal Corporation, which has received national recognition for its cleanliness efforts. “The Agartala Municipal Corporation has been awarded at the national level twice. We are addressing the basic problems of the people and keeping a close watch on everything,” he added.
The event was part of a series of social initiatives organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which began on September 17, marking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday. “These programs have been organized in honor of three great personalities – PM Modi, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, and Mahatma Gandhi. Today is the final day of these events,” Dr. Saha said, acknowledging the contributions of the BJP in various social initiatives.
During another event held at Rabindra Bhavan to mark the closing ceremony of the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign, the Chief Minister lauded the tireless efforts of women from various self-help groups (SHGs) in promoting cleanliness. “Cleanliness is a continuous process and requires everyone’s cooperation,” he remarked, emphasizing the role of citizens in maintaining cleanliness in offices, schools, and homes.
Dr. Saha also took the opportunity to announce the government’s decision to allocate 10% of the budget for office cleanliness. “I have visited many offices where I saw huge stocks of dusty files. I then spoke with the Chief Secretary and allocated 10% of the budget for the cleanliness of offices and other establishments, which was also passed in the cabinet,” he revealed. He added that the initiative is not just the responsibility of the government but of everyone.
In addition to these cleanliness initiatives, Dr. Saha inaugurated a new vending zone at Children’s Park, part of the Agartala Smart City Project Limited. This vending zone, designed in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), aims to organize vendors and improve cleanliness in the city. “I have instructed all vendors to maintain cleanliness, which is the primary objective,” Dr. Saha stated.
The Chief Minister concluded his address by extending his best wishes for Mahalaya and Durga Puja, two significant festivals in the state. “Everyone eagerly waits for Durga Puja, which is our biggest festival. I want to wish everyone a happy Durga Puja and urge everyone to celebrate this festival peacefully,” he said.
