Reaffirming its commitment to the nationwide Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, has launched Swachhata Pakhwada 2026, a 15-day cleanliness and sanitation campaign being observed from May 1 to May 15 at its main campus. The programme was formally inaugurated by Director Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, who administered the Swachhata pledge to scientists, research scholars, technical staff, administrative personnel and support workers, marking the beginning of a series of activities aimed at promoting cleanliness, hygiene and environmental responsibility within the institute.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ahmed emphasised that cleanliness is not merely a periodic exercise but a continuous responsibility that must be embedded in the institutional culture. He said that maintaining a clean, hygienic and well-organised workplace is essential for fostering productivity, discipline and a positive scientific environment.Highlighting the collective nature of the effort, the Director stated that every individual in the institute—whether part of the scientific community, administrative setup or support staff—plays an equally important role in ensuring the upkeep of the campus. He stressed that each employee should take ownership of their workspace, department and shared facilities to maintain overall cleanliness. Dr. Ahmed also drew attention to the importance of maintaining high standards in laboratories and offices, noting that cleanliness and organisation directly influence the quality of research and work efficiency. He underlined the need for proper waste disposal systems, safe and systematic storage of chemicals, and regular maintenance of infrastructure to ensure a safe and hygienic working environment. He further remarked that visitors, collaborators and stakeholders often judge an institution by its surroundings. A clean and well-maintained campus, he said, reflects professionalism, discipline and commitment to excellence, thereby enhancing the institute’s reputation at both national and international levels. Encouraging sustained participation, Dr. Ahmed urged all members of the institute to actively support the Swachhata initiatives beyond the designated fortnight. He called for the development of a long-term system where cleanliness becomes a habitual practice rather than a campaign-driven activity.

During the programme, it was highlighted that Swachhata Pakhwada, introduced in 2014 under the Swachh Bharat Mission, involves focused cleanliness drives and awareness campaigns by various government departments and institutions across the country. The initiative aims to instil behavioural change and promote better sanitation practices in workplaces and public spaces. As part of the ongoing Pakhwada, CSIR-IIIM Jammu will organise a range of activities including campus-wide cleanliness drives, awareness programmes on hygiene and sanitation, waste management initiatives, laboratory and office maintenance exercises. Scientists, students, safai karamcharis and staff members are expected to actively participate in these initiatives.

The event proceedings were conducted by Dr. Premnarayan Gupta, Senior Principal Scientist, who coordinated the programme and highlighted the importance of collective engagement in achieving the objectives of the campaign. The institute administration expressed confidence that the Swachhata Pakhwada activities will not only improve the physical environment of the campus but also strengthen a sense of responsibility and awareness among all stakeholders towards maintaining cleanliness in their professional and personal lives.