Cleanliness is a Lifelong Value, Says Minister Jual Oram
Union Minister Jual Oram joins students in Uttarakhand for a cleanliness drive, emphasizing that hygiene is a lifelong value for a Swachh Bharat.
Marking the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram joined students and educators in Uttarakhand to transform a simple cleanliness drive into a powerful lesson on civic responsibility. Speaking at the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) in Bazpur, Udham Singh Nagar, the Minister emphasized that maintaining hygiene is far more than a periodic task; it is a core value that must be integrated into daily life.
The event saw the Union Minister paying floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri before diving into hands-on activities. Alongside students, teachers, and local community members, Oram participated in a massive cleanliness drive across the school premises and administered a formal cleanliness pledge to the attendees.
A Vision for Swachh Bharat and Viksit Bharat
During his interaction with the youth, Oram highlighted how personal hygiene and environmental stewardship contribute to larger national goals. He noted that adopting cleanliness as a way of life leads to better health, increased dignity, and sustainable development.
"Cleanliness is not merely an activity but a value to be adopted throughout life," Oram stated, urging students to act as ambassadors of change within their own families and villages. He linked these local actions to the broader national vision of 'Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat', noting that the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign is designed to turn hygiene into a massive people's movement.
Empowering Tribal Students through Education
Beyond the cleanliness drive, the Minister focused heavily on the developmental roadmap for tribal communities. He visited student-led exhibitions showcasing innovative ideas on waste management, segregation, and environmental conservation, praising the creativity displayed by the young learners.
Oram addressed the critical need for bridging the gap between remote tribal areas and mainstream development. He outlined several key commitments regarding the Eklavya Model Residential School:
- Upgrading Infrastructure: The government aims to equip EMRS Bazpur with modern resources to transform it into a "centre of excellence."
- Academic Standards: The Minister expressed his intent to elevate the school's educational quality to match prestigious institutions like Sainik Schools and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
- Holistic Support: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government is prioritizing quality education and better facilities for children in remote regions to ensure they can contribute to nation-building.
The program concluded with a symbolic gesture of environmental care, as the Minister planted a sapling under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, reinforcing the connection between cleanliness, greenery, and a sustainable future.