Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh Leads Swachhotsav 2025 Cleanliness Drive

New Delhi– Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spearheaded a special cleanliness campaign, “Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath,” at the Army Headquarters Unit Run Canteen on 25 September 2025. The programme forms part of the ongoing Swachhotsav 2025 and the Swachhata Hi Seva movement running from 17 September to 2 October 2025, aiming to inspire collective action for a cleaner and greener India.

During the event, the Minister administered the Swachhata Sankalp pledge, honoured dedicated Safai Mitras, and planted trees to promote an eco-friendly, zero-waste environment. He also flagged off a Safai Run featuring 100 NCC cadets, symbolising the power of youth in advancing the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

In his address, Singh emphasised that cleanliness is “a philosophy of life,” reflecting discipline and social responsibility. He highlighted the health and mental-wellness benefits of clean surroundings and warned of the risks of neglecting hygiene. Referencing India’s cultural heritage, he noted that maintaining cleanliness has long been a hallmark of a civilised society.

The Defence Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to make cleanliness a people’s movement. He underscored the Ministry of Defence’s role through waste-to-wealth initiatives and the transformation of camps and offices into models of sanitation.

Praising the armed forces, he stated that all military camps are now open-defecation free, a testament to their discipline and commitment. He urged citizens to adopt cleanliness as a national duty, strengthening health, environment, and national security.

The programme was attended by senior officials including General Anil Chauhan (CDS), General Upendra Dwivedi (COAS), Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh (CAS), Dr. Niten Chandra, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, and Dr. Mayank Sharma, along with numerous MoD personnel and jawans.