Trying to Do Better: My Experience with Swachhata Pakhwada at IIM Bodh Gaya

I am pleased to share my experience as part of IIM Bodh Gaya’s participation in the Swachhata Pakhwada, a government-led initiative mandated by the Ministry of Education promoting cleanliness and environmental responsibility across institutions in India. This event, held between September 1 and 15, 2024, aimed to support the Honorable Prime Minister’s vision of Swachh Bharat through community involvement in cleanliness activities and sustainable waste management.

At IIM Bodh Gaya, we are committed to making our campus a beacon of cleanliness and sustainability. The cleanliness drive on September 8, 2024, was a testament to this commitment, and I was fortunate to be part of this impactful event. It wasn’t just an ordinary gathering—it was filled with enthusiasm and a sincere acknowledgment of the importance of cleanliness for a healthy and prosperous life.

On the day of the event, we assembled at the Dhanvantari Block at 6:45 AM, ready to contribute to the cause. Our Director, Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, initiated the drive with an inspiring message, urging us to support this initiative. Groups of students under the guidance of faculty members were then assigned different areas of the campus as part of the cleanliness drive. By 7:00 AM, the work had begun, and each group had taken charge of their respective blocks with great zeal.

The collective effort was truly inspiring. In the true spirit of Shramdaan, we worked together, reinforcing the idea that cleanliness is not just an individual responsibility but a shared one; that together, we can make a significant difference.

What stood out to me was the emphasis on sustaining this spirit of cleanliness beyond the event. Each group was assigned the responsibility of upholding the cleanliness of their assigned blocks, ensuring that the impact of the Swachhata Pakhwada would be lasting and meaningful.

Being part of this initiative gave me the chance to actively contribute to the Swachh Bharat vision and make a tangible difference. It was heartening to see my peers and faculty come together with a shared sense of ownership and responsibility for our environment. To my mind, this event not only fostered teamwork but also deepened our understanding of the importance of sustainable waste management.

This experience also made me realize that every small action counts. In our busy routines, it’s easy to overlook the importance of cleanliness, but participating in this drive reminded me that maintaining a clean environment begins with individual efforts. When we unite with a common goal, the impact is not just visible—it’s transformative.

I am proud to have contributed to the Swachhata Pakhwada. My hope is that we ensure our actions reflect our ongoing commitment to Swachh Bharat, not just on event days but every day, for a cleaner, greener India.

Author: Raghavendra Mani Tripathi

About the Author: Student of HHM 02

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