Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Flags Off Marathon, Promotes Cleanliness and Environmental Conservation

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took part in the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva-2024’ program at Parade Ground in Dehradun today, promoting cleanliness and environmental conservation through a series of events. The Chief Minister flagged off a marathon race, emphasizing the importance of fitness and community involvement in maintaining a clean and green environment.

During the event, CM Dhami administered the ‘Oath of Cleanliness’ to the large gathering, urging citizens to keep their surroundings clean and participate actively in the Swachh Bharat mission. The program is part of a larger national campaign aimed at ensuring sanitation and hygiene across India, with Uttarakhand making significant contributions.

In addition to promoting cleanliness, CM Dhami highlighted the state’s efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment. As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ initiative, he planted saplings in the Parade Ground premises, symbolizing the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This campaign encourages citizens to plant trees in honor of their mothers, combining ecological responsibility with cultural reverence.

Addressing the crowd, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of tree planting as a means to combat deforestation and promote greener cities. “Every tree we plant today is an investment in the future of our children. We are not only ensuring cleaner air but also honoring the essence of motherhood through this initiative,” Dhami said.

Another highlight of the event was the distribution of Kishori kits to young girls, an initiative aimed at improving adolescent health and hygiene. The Chief Minister handed out the kits, which contain essential hygiene products, to girls present at the event. This gesture was part of an ongoing effort by the Uttarakhand government to promote health awareness and hygiene among adolescent girls, particularly in rural areas.

Prior to these activities, CM Dhami performed the Vishwakarma Puja, marking the occasion of Vishwakarma Day, which celebrates the Hindu deity of craftsmanship and architecture. The Chief Minister offered prayers and wished the people of Uttarakhand a prosperous and happy Vishwakarma Day, emphasizing the importance of skill development and hard work.

The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva-2024’ campaign, of which today’s event was a part, is aligned with the nationwide Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, launched by the Indian government to promote cleanliness and sanitation. The campaign encourages citizens from all walks of life to contribute toward a cleaner and more sustainable India.

In his address, CM Dhami encouraged people to adopt cleanliness not just as a campaign but as a way of life. “We must take responsibility for keeping our surroundings clean and work together to make Uttarakhand a model state for cleanliness and environmental conservation,” he said.

The marathon race, which saw enthusiastic participation from citizens, was organized to raise awareness about fitness and cleanliness. Hundreds of runners, including schoolchildren, youth, and senior citizens, took part in the race. The event aimed to highlight the importance of both physical fitness and cleanliness in creating a healthier, more vibrant community.

The Chief Minister’s participation in the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva-2024’ program reflects his administration’s commitment to the twin causes of public health and environmental sustainability. Through initiatives like tree planting, cleanliness drives, and awareness campaigns, Uttarakhand is working toward becoming a cleaner and greener state.

As the event came to a close, participants expressed their appreciation for the government’s efforts in promoting both environmental conservation and public health. The campaign will continue in various districts of the state, with more activities planned to engage the public in the coming weeks.