Environmental Cleanliness and Swachhta Awareness Programme at DTU
29th August 2025 | Delhi Technological University (DTU) Campus
The Green Institute for Research and Development (GIRD), in association with the Department of Environmental Engineering, Delhi Technological University (DTU), and the Indian Society for Literacy Development (ISLD), successfully organized an Environmental Cleanliness and Swachhta Awareness Programme on 29th August 2025 at the DTU campus.
Delhi, as a rapidly urbanizing metropolis, faces acute challenges in waste management due to increasing waste generation, lack of source segregation, and overburdened landfills, resulting in severe health and environmental risks. Public awareness and behavioral gaps continue to aggravate the crisis despite governmental interventions. Recognizing the urgency of this situation, the programme was conceived with the aim of cultivating environmental responsibility and cleanliness (Swachhta) among school children and the wider community. By engaging students, teachers, and volunteers, it sought to raise awareness about waste management, hygiene, and sustainable living practices, thereby fostering long-term behavioral change for a cleaner and healthier Delhi.
The day’s activities began with a Swachhta Rally across the campus including residential areas, led by students, teachers, research scholars, and volunteers of GIRD and ISLD. The rally effectively spread the message of cleanliness and environmental care. At its culmination, participants took a Swachhta Pledge administered by Dr. Gita Singh, Head of the Environmental Engineering Department, DTU. The pledge reaffirmed the commitment of students and other participants towards sustainable practices and keeping the environment clean. The programme was steered by Shri A.K. Shamsuddeen, Secretary, GIRD; Dr. K.P. Hareendran Achari, Director, ISLD; and senior faculty members of DTU.
A Drawing and Painting Competition on the theme of environmental cleanliness was conducted for school children. The participants showcased creative expressions on cleanliness and environment protection. Certificates were awarded to all participants, and prizes were given to the three best entries.
An Interactive Session was also held, addressed by Dr. Anil Kumar (former Director, Environment Department, Government of NCT of Delhi), Prof. Girish Kumar (Dean, R&D, Department of Mechanical Engineering, DTU), and participated by Dr. A.K. Haritash along with other DTU faculty members. The session sensitized students, teachers and others about proper waste disposal practices and the need for cultivating eco-friendly habits, emphasizing that environmental stewardship must begin at a young age.
Dr Anil Kumar, former Director, Department of Environment, Govt. of NCT of Delhi addressing an interactive session
The programme also marked the formal launch of GIRD’s initiative for free distribution of dustbins in slum areas of Delhi, inaugurated by Dr. Anil Kumar. This project aims to encourage segregation of wet and dry waste at source and promote responsible waste disposal practices among local communities.
Dr Anil Kumar, former Director, Department of Environment, Govt. of NCT of Delhi addressing an interactive session
The programme also marked the formal launch of GIRD’s initiative for free distribution of dustbins in slum areas of Delhi, inaugurated by Dr. Anil Kumar. This project aims to encourage segregation of wet and dry waste at source and promote responsible waste disposal practices among local communities.