Guwahati, 02 October (HS): An extensive cleanliness programme was organised at the headquarters and all companies of the 1st Battalion, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Sonapur, on Thursday on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The programme was conducted under the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign under the guidance of Kh. Ibouchouba Singh, Second-in-Command and Officiating Commandant of the 1st Battalion SSB, Sonapur.

The campaign carried the messages “1 Hour Every Day, 100 Days, 100 Knots” and “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, with the objective of promoting cleanliness, environmental awareness and public participation.

Officers and personnel of the Battalion Headquarters and ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘D’, ‘E’, ‘F’ and ‘G’ Companies participated in the cleanliness drive through voluntary shramdaan. Cleanliness activities were carried out across office premises, residential areas, jawan barracks, connecting roads, parking spaces, open areas and other designated locations.

Personnel collected waste from the premises and ensured its proper disposal while emphasising the need to maintain clean and hygienic surroundings on a regular basis.

During the programme, officers and personnel were sensitised to the message that cleanliness is not merely the responsibility of sanitation workers but a collective responsibility of every individual. They were encouraged to maintain cleanliness at their workplaces, residential premises and surrounding areas.

Cleanliness drives were also conducted separately at all the companies of the battalion. Personnel at ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘D’, ‘E’, ‘F’ and ‘G’ Companies actively participated in shramdaan and cleaned their respective premises and adjoining areas.

A cleanliness pledge was also administered during the programme. The participants resolved to maintain personal hygiene, keep their homes and workplaces clean, ensure proper disposal of waste and discourage littering.

The programme also highlighted the importance of environmental protection, including reducing unnecessary use of plastic and promoting a clean and green environment. Personnel were encouraged to make cleanliness a regular habit rather than limiting it to special campaigns or occasions.

The Officiating Commandant called upon the officers and personnel to incorporate cleanliness into their daily lives and working practices. He stressed that individual efforts to keep one's surroundings clean could contribute to creating a healthier environment and a more responsible society.

The programme also sought to carry forward Mahatma Gandhi's emphasis on cleanliness and social responsibility. The 1st Battalion SSB continues to organise activities related to cleanliness, environmental protection, plantation, health awareness, de-addiction and social awareness alongside its regular security duties.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash