ITANAGAR, Oct 2: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday called upon citizens to make cleanliness a collective responsibility and contribute actively towards building cleaner and greener communities in the state.
Addressing the Swachh Bharat Diwas celebration organised by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) at the State Banquet Hall here under the Swachhta Hi Seva-2026 campaign, Khandu said the cleanliness of Itanagar, being the capital city, reflects the image of Arunachal Pradesh.
The programme began with a floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Recalling Gandhiji's ideals of truth, non-violence, simplicity and service, the Chief Minister urged citizens to translate these values into action by maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings.
Khandu launched the “Swachhta Vahaan”, aimed at taking awareness on cleanliness and responsible waste management to different sections of society, and administered the Swachhata pledge to students and volunteers present at the hall.
He urged people to take the cleanliness pledge seriously and dedicate at least 100 hours a year, or about two hours every week, towards cleanliness and community service.
The Chief Minister also participated in a cleanliness drive and a plantation programme under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative at Itafort in Ward No. 10. He said a clean environment and greater public responsibility would be a fitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
On the occasion, the CM also launched the IMC App as a technology-driven initiative for improving municipal waste management. The application will enable real-time tracking of garbage collection vehicles, allow citizens to report overflowing bins through photographs and facilitate before-and-after monitoring of sanitation activities.
Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta stressed the need for sustained public participation in keeping residential and public spaces clean and appreciated the IMC for introducing the digital initiative.
IMC Commissioner Kego Jilen highlighted the objectives of the celebration and appealed to residents of the capital to work collectively towards making Itanagar clean and green. He also urged the government to enhance the budgetary allocation for the corporation to strengthen municipal services.
Itanagar MLA Techi Kacho, IMC Mayor Likha Nari Tadar, Deputy Mayor Tok Tabin Camdir, Itanagar Capital Region Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu, students, IMC officials and other dignitaries attended the programme.