ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore Advances Cleanliness, Dignity of Safai Mitras and Environmental Sustainability under Swachhata Special Campaign 6.0

21 October 2026, Barrackpore

Reinforcing its commitment to institutional cleanliness, environmental sustainability and the dignity of sanitation workers, ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, organised ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Evam Samman Shivir’ and a plantation programme under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ today as part of its initiatives towards the objectives of Swachhata Special Campaign 6.0.

The Safai Mitra Suraksha Evam Samman Shivir highlighted the vital contribution of sanitation workers in maintaining clean, hygienic and healthy institutional surroundings. The initiative emphasised the importance of their safety, health, welfare and dignity, reaffirming that sanitation workers are essential partners in the collective mission of Swachhata. It also echoed the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi that no work is menial and that every individual engaged in maintaining cleanliness deserves respect and recognition.

Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore, in his inspiring address, highlighted the invaluable contribution of sanitation workers (Safai Mitras) to nation-building and the maintenance of a clean, healthy and hygienic environment. He emphasized that cleanliness extends beyond our external surroundings to include inner purity, discipline and responsible behaviour. He urged everyone to recognize the dedication of sanitation workers and uphold their dignity, well-being and welfare.

Dr Dey stressed the importance of a healthy lifestyle and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to the welfare of its sanitation workers and the improvement of their quality of life. Emphasizing the significance of the ‘One Health’ approach, he highlighted the need for maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of diseases to promote the well-being of people, animals and the environment.

As part of the initiative, fruit baskets were distributed to the Safai Mitras to encourage healthy eating habits and acknowledge their dedicated service. Personal protective materials, including gloves, masks and soap, were also provided to support their health, hygiene and safety. The initiative reflected the Institute’s appreciation for their essential contribution and reinforced the message that cleanliness is a shared responsibility and a cornerstone of a healthier society.

Complementing the cleanliness initiative, the plantation programme under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ promoted environmental responsibility and the importance of nurturing greenery for a sustainable future. The initiative conveyed a message of gratitude towards Mother Nature while highlighting the role of tree plantation in enhancing green cover, conserving biodiversity and fostering environmental consciousness.

The programme was aligned with the broader objectives of Swachhata Special Campaign 6.0, with emphasis on improving workplace cleanliness, maintaining hygienic public spaces, promoting responsible waste management and strengthening a culture of cleanliness through collective responsibility. It also reinforced the importance of transforming cleanliness practices into sustained institutional habits rather than limiting them to time-bound campaigns.

As a premier fisheries research institution under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, ICAR-CIFRI recognises that scientific excellence and institutional progress must go hand in hand with environmental stewardship, social responsibility and a dignified workplace for all. Through these initiatives, the institute reiterated its commitment to a cleaner, greener and more inclusive institutional environment, contributing to the broader national vision of Swachh Bharat and Viksit Bharat.

The programme reaffirmed ICAR-CIFRI’s resolve to make Swachhata a sustained institutional commitment combining cleanliness, respect for Safai Mitras and environmental conservation to create a healthier and more sustainable future.

(Source: ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore)