Promoting Cleanliness and Sustainability: Swachhata Pakhwada Observed at CSIR-IHBT
The CSIR–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Palampur, marked Swachhata Pakhwada from May 1 to 15, 2026, with a series of engaging activities aimed at promoting cleanliness, environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
The fortnight began with a Swachhata pledge, administered by Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav to the institute’s staff and scholars, setting the tone for a collective commitment toward maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Throughout the two weeks, the institute organized a variety of programs to involve both its members and the wider community. These included slogan-writing and painting competitions, which encouraged creative expression on the theme of cleanliness, along with special cleanliness drives conducted across the campus and workplaces.
Adding a green touch to the initiative, a plantation drive was also carried out, reinforcing the importance of environmental conservation. The institute further extended its outreach by organizing popular lectures for school and college students in nearby areas, spreading awareness about hygiene, sustainability and environmental responsibility.
One of the highlights of the programme was the “Waste to Wealth” exhibition, which showcased innovative and eco-friendly methods of recycling and reusing waste materials. The exhibition served as a practical demonstration of how everyday waste can be transformed into valuable resources.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav emphasized that cleanliness is essential not just for a healthy environment but also for overall well-being. He urged everyone to make cleanliness a regular part of daily life, highlighting that lasting change comes from consistent individual and collective efforts.
The Swachhata Pakhwada at IHBT served as a reminder that small actions, when taken together, can lead to meaningful and lasting impact on the environment and society.
