‘An innovative initiative that aims to promote waste management by incentivizing the proper disposal of waste. It will encourage people to adopt responsible waste management practices by rewarding individuals for depositing their plastic waste’
Several districts in Jammu and Kashmir have taken a significant step towards promoting environmental conservation and waste management by inaugurating Swachhata Banks in the first week of March. The Swachhata Banks, established in Chowki Choura block in district Jammu, Harwan and Qamarwari blocks in district Srinagar, Majalta in district Udhampur, and Devsar and Qaimoh blocks in district Kulgam, allow individuals to deposit their plastic waste in exchange for rewards in the form of cash, stationery items, T- shirts, Caps, etc. This also becomes an opportunity to educate people about the value of waste management.
The inauguration ceremonies of these Swachhata Banks were attended by local officials, elected representatives, and community members who expressed their support for the initiative.
Mission Director, SBM (G) J&K, Ms. Anoo Malhotra said that the Swachhata Banks aim to create awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and to incentivize the community to participate actively in waste management efforts.
Ms. Malhotra stated, “The Swachhata Banks are a positive step towards creating a cleaner and greener environment. By encouraging people to deposit their plastic waste at the designated place converted as Swachhata Banks, we are not only promoting waste management but also instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment.” She further said Recycling is a key part of the circular economy, that also helps to protect our natural resources.
Earlier, DG has launched the “My 10 kg Plastic Campaign” in Panchayat Gazipur Kullian of district Jammu with Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA). Under this initiative, individuals who actively contribute by collecting and disposing of 10 kg of plastic waste from their villages will be eligible for the ‘Plastic Neutral Citizen Certificate.’
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Chowki Choura, District Development Counsellor (DDC) members, Pt. Suresh Sharma termed it a noble initiative emphasizing the need for collective action to address the issue of waste management.
Similarly, in Harwan Block and Devsar, officials and community leaders highlighted the importance of the Swachhata Banks in promoting a cleaner and healthier environment. They urged residents to actively participate in the initiative and to make use of the Swachhata Banks to dispose of their plastic waste responsibly, which would be further sent for recycling.
The establishment of Swachhata Banks in multiple districts across Jammu and Kashmir is a testament to the commitment of local officials and communities towards promoting environmental sustainability. This initiative was taken after Ms. Malhotra visited the field to check the functionality of the assets created under SBM-G for proper disposal of waste. It is hoped that these initiatives will inspire community to take similar steps towards creating a cleaner and greener future for all.
Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) 