Ribhoi, October 02 : To commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and to mark the nationwide campaigns Swachhata Hi Seva and Swachhotsava, Dorbar Shnong Mawtnum, Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya, in collaboration with Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd., Shillong, organised a cleaning drive in the village. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of nearly 150 community members, including children, youth, and elders, symbolising Gandhiji’s vision of cleanliness as a cornerstone of a healthy society.
The program began with a welcome by K. Nongmalieh, Secretary of the Dorbar Shnong Mawtnum, who spoke about the importance of collective efforts in maintaining a clean environment. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Vivek Kumar, Director of Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd., applauded the active involvement of the villagers. He highlighted the significance of Swachhata Hi Seva and Swachhotsava, initiatives of the Government of India, and emphasised that cleanliness is a shared responsibility. “When each of us contributes through small steps, together we can bring about a big change. It is our country, our environment, and our responsibility,” he said. He also stressed the urgent issue of pollution caused by single-use plastics, which not only choke rivers and pollute the environment but also persist in soil for thousands of years without degrading. Dr. Kumar reminded participants of the nation-wide ban on single-use plastics notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and encouraged the adoption of compostable and eco-friendly alternatives.
Dr. Kumar also conveyed appreciation to the Dorbar Headman, B. H. Nongmalieh, Secretary, K. Nongmalieh, R R Makdoh, Executive Committee member, and all villagers for their wholehearted support.
The Headman, B. H. Nongmalieh expressed gratitude to Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd. for supporting the initiative and praised the participation of community members across all age groups. He noted the collective spirit shown by the villagers to ensure cleanliness and sustainability in their surroundings. The drive concluded with a renewed commitment from both Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd. and the Dorbar to continue joint efforts for promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental responsibility in the village and beyond.
