GANDERBAL: Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the Municipal Council Ganderbal on Wednesday organised a massive cleanliness drive under the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024, which marks culmination of it’s series of events besides a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 155th birth anniversary — honoring his lifelong advocacy for cleanliness, self-reliance, and community responsibility.
The drive was held on the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and as part of Swachhata Diwas, by the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of the varsity within the premises of Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple Tullmulla, Ganderbal, reflecting Mahatma Gandhi’s unwavering dedication to cleanliness and sanitation as essential pillars of both personal and societal development.
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Prof. A Ravinder Nath, Vice Chancellor. Addressing the gathering, Prof. A Ravinder Nath emphasized the profound connection between education and cleanliness as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi, stating that cleanliness is an integral part of our cultural and moral values.
“This Swachhata drive is not just an activity, but a way to instill Gandhian principles of cleanliness and responsibility in our future generations,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said, adding, it’s not just a one-day event, but a way of life, stating that “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign is a testament to how collective efforts can lead to positive change.
He further stressed that maintaining cleanliness is crucial for personal, societal, and environmental well-being, urging the participants to integrate cleanliness into their daily lives as a sustainable habit. He hailed the NSS unit for holding a series of events.
Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool also appreciated the NSS unit for their pivotal role throughout the 15-days long campaign, with activities ranging from cleanliness drives to interactive workshops on sustainable practices, waste segregation, and the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
NSS Programme Coordinator Dr. Shabir Ahmad Ahanger highlighted the list of activities conducted by NSS Unit and thanked Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath and others including DAA, Prof. Shahid Rasool, and Chairman Dr Kaukab Azeem, Head Department of Physical Education for their support in campaigns.
Prof. Syed Zahoor Geelani, Dean School of Education, along with other Deans and Heads of various departments, actively participated in the cleanliness drive.
The occasion concluded with the Swachhata Champion certificate distribution by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath among the student volunteers, who made significant contributions to promoting cleanliness during the campaign.