RONO HILLS, OCT 2:
Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) observed Swachh Bharat Diwas 2026 on Friday to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti as part of the ongoing Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2026 campaign.
Organised by the RGU Swachhata Hi Seva Committee and coordinators at the university’s Mini Auditorium, the programme featured a cleanliness drive from the Old Auditorium to the Mini Auditorium, with participation of more than 200 students, NSS volunteers, faculty members, officers and other members of the university community.
The programme began with the University Song, followed by a welcome address by RGU Deputy Registrar (IISYD) and NSS Programme Officer Gomar Basar. He highlighted the importance of cleanliness in Mahatma Gandhi’s vision and stressed that it should be embraced as a way of life rather than viewed merely as a civic duty.
RGU Vice-Chancellor Prof Shivaraj and Finance Officer (in-charge) Prof Vandana Upadhyay, along with university officers, faculty members, staff and students, attended the programme.
A major highlight was the felicitation of Safai Mitras for their dedicated service in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation on the campus during the SHS campaign. Sanitary Inspector Lika Thalian and members of the Safai Mitra team were specially recognised for their contribution.
RGU NSS volunteers were also felicitated for their active participation in the cleanliness drive and other activities conducted under SHS 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Prof Shivaraj stressed the need to make cleanliness a continuous practice and collective responsibility and called upon the university community to work towards a clean, healthy and sustainable campus.
Finance Officer (in-charge) Prof Vandana Upadhyay appreciated the efforts of the Safai Mitras and NSS volunteers in maintaining the university’s clean and green environment.
The programme also highlighted Gandhian values of truth, simplicity, service and social responsibility, with participants encouraged to carry the message of cleanliness beyond the campaign period.
