New Delhi: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh spearheaded a special cleanliness initiative titled ‘Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ on September 25, 2025, at the Army Headquarters Unit Run Canteen, New Delhi. This drive is part of the ongoing Swachhata Hi Seva campaign under Swachhotsav 2025, spanning from September 17 to October 2, 2025, across the Ministry of Defence. The event underscored the power of collective action in fostering a cleaner, greener and healthier environment while aligning with the patriotic and festive spirit of the nation.
Commitment through Action and Honour
During the event, Shri Rajnath Singh took the ‘Swachhata Sankalp’ (pledge) reaffirming his dedication to cleanliness. He honored Safai Mitras for their invaluable contributions to sanitation and actively participated in a tree-planting drive to promote eco-friendly, zero-waste environments. In a symbolic gesture, the Raksha Mantri flagged off a Safai Run featuring 100 NCC cadets, highlighting the crucial role of youth in advancing the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.
Philosophy of Cleanliness and National Pride
Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized that it transcends physical tidiness—it is a ‘way of life’ embodying discipline and responsibility. He remarked that clean surroundings boost health, mental peace, and overall well-being, whereas uncleanliness fosters disease and negativity. Drawing from India’s rich traditions, he noted that cleanliness has always symbolized a civilized society.
Highlighting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that cleanliness is a people’s movement, requiring everyone’s active participation. The Ministry of Defence contributes through nationwide cleanliness drives, waste-to-wealth programs, and transforming military camps and offices into exemplary centres of sanitation.
Milestones and National Security
The Raksha Mantri proudly noted that all military camps are now open-defecation free, reflecting both the discipline of armed forces personnel and the dedication of the civilian workforce. He underscored that a healthy, clean, and environmentally conscious society forms a pillar of national security. Shri Rajnath Singh called on all citizens to embrace cleanliness as a national duty and inspire others towards building a clean, healthy, and developed India.
Esteemed Participation
The cleanliness drive witnessed participation from top military leadership including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. Senior officials such as Secretary (ESW) Dr Niten Chandra, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Dr Mayank Sharma, senior Ministry of Defence officers, and jawans actively took part in the event.
Conclusion: Swachhotsav 2025
The ‘Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ initiative led by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh at the Army Headquarters exemplifies the spirit of collective responsibility in the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. It reinforces hygienic lifestyle and national duty crucial for the health, safety, and prosperity of the nation.
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Source: PIB
