Guwahati, 23 February (HS): As part of the ongoing Sewa Sankalp Saptah initiated by Lok Bhavan, Assam, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday took part in a cleanliness drive at Latasil Playground along with Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) Mayor Mrigen Sarania.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor lauded the efforts of GMC under the leadership of Mayor Sarania. He described Guwahati’s remarkable jump in the 2025 national cleanliness rankings—from 402nd to 44th position—as a historic and commendable achievement. He congratulated the Mayor, his team and especially the sanitation workers whose dedication made the transformation possible.

Highlighting the significance of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the Governor said the mission is not merely about cleanliness but about nation-building. Drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi, who emphasized the importance of cleanliness and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who transformed it into a nationwide movement in 2014, he noted that the campaign has evolved into a powerful mass initiative uniting citizens across the country.

The Governor also expressed gratitude for the affection and support he received from the people of Assam and the Northeast during his three years of service, first as Governor of Sikkim and now as Governor of Assam. He praised the resilience and optimism of the people, calling them a constant source of inspiration.

Paying special tribute to sanitation workers, he described them as guardians of public health and protectors of cleanliness. He urged citizens to respect their silent and disciplined service, which ensures clean streets and orderly surroundings every day. Referring to the Sanskrit saying “Shuchirbhutah Shuchih Bhavet,” he underlined that true purity encompasses both external cleanliness and inner conduct. He emphasized that a clean environment is essential for a healthy society, disease prevention, environmental protection, and a secure future for coming generations.

Appealing to the youth to lead by example, the Governor encouraged them to make cleanliness a part of their daily lives, uphold the spirit of service, respect hard work, and contribute to building a clean, healthy, and prosperous state. He stated that every small effort contributes to meaningful change and that individual responsibility forms the true foundation of patriotism.

Among those present were the Governor’s Commissioner and Secretary SS Meenakshi Sundaram, GMC Commissioner Chinmoy Prakash Phukan, Deputy Mayor Smita Roy, Chairperson Bhupen Barua, Vice Chairperson Ratna Singh, along with GMC officials, volunteers, youth participants, and other dignitaries.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash