Celebrating India’s Cleanliness Champions
The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented the prestigious Swachh Survekshan Awards 2025 at a grand ceremony organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in New Delhi.
This year’s event marked another milestone in India’s ongoing cleanliness journey under the Swachh Bharat Mission. The President praised the commitment of urban local bodies, state governments, and 14 crore citizens who took part in the world’s largest cleanliness survey conducted in 2024.
Cleanliness as a Way of Life
In her inspiring address, President Murmu emphasized that cleanliness is deeply rooted in Indian culture. She recalled how our ancestors upheld hygiene and sanitation as a sacred practice in homes, temples, and communities. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she echoed the timeless belief: “Cleanliness is next to godliness.”
President Murmu also shared her personal connection with cleanliness, recounting her early work as Vice President of the Notified Area Council. She used to personally inspect wards daily to ensure cleanliness standards were met.
Strengthening Circular Economy with Traditional Wisdom
The President highlighted that the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle—often called the circular economy—are not new to India. These values have always existed in our traditional lifestyle, especially among tribal communities who use minimal resources, respect nature, and waste nothing.
She stressed that modern systems of circularity can be made more effective by learning from indigenous knowledge and simple living practices. This fusion of ancient habits with modern technology holds the key to sustainable development.
Source Segregation: A Crucial First Step
Among the most critical messages shared by the President was the importance of source segregation. She called it the first and most vital step in waste management.
Every household and institution must commit to separating wet and dry waste. She also praised zero-waste colonies that are successfully setting examples across India by following effective segregation and recycling models.
Teaching Cleanliness as a Core Value
Another standout initiative lauded by the President was the School Level Assessment. Its goal is to instill cleanliness as a fundamental value in students. She noted that this program will have long-term positive effects on behavior and public hygiene awareness.
Tackling Plastic and E-Waste Head-On
President Murmu acknowledged that plastic and electronic waste remain significant challenges for India. She referred to the 2022 single-use plastic ban and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines issued that same year.
She urged producers, brand owners, and importers to ensure complete compliance with these EPR rules. With collective responsibility, she said, India can significantly reduce plastic emissions and control pollution levels.
Cleanliness is a Cultural and Economic Effort
The President underscored that cleanliness goes beyond hygiene. It intersects with economic development, cultural preservation, and environmental well-being.
She expressed confidence that every citizen will take ownership of the cleanliness mission. She envisions India as one of the cleanest nations by 2047—a goal that aligns with the vision of a developed, sustainable India.
Key Messages from the President’s Address
- Cleanliness is a cultural value rooted in ancient Indian practices.
- Source segregation is essential in the waste management chain.
- Tribal lifestyles offer a model for sustainable living and circular economy.
- Students must be taught cleanliness from a young age.
- Plastic and e-waste require immediate attention through policy and compliance.
- Everyone has a role to play in achieving the goals of Swachh Bharat Mission 2047.
A Vision for a Cleaner India
President Droupadi Murmu’s speech at the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2025 was more than ceremonial. It was a call to action for every Indian.
She blended tradition with modernity. She gave credit to the youth, government, and citizens. And she gave India a clear, hopeful message: A clean India is within reach—if we all play our part, every single day.
