RAIPUR: Three cities in Chhattisgarh, Raipur, Bilaspur and Bilha have been selected for national awards under Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 for their efforts to improve sanitation facilities and encourage public participation, officials said on Tuesday, November 10.
The 10th edition of Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 was conducted under the theme 'Swachhata Ki Nayi Pehel – Badhayein Haath, Karein Safai Saath', which emphasises collective responsibility and citizen participation in maintaining cleanliness.
President Droupadi Murmu will present the awards at a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Wednesday, November 11.
The recognition highlights the sustained efforts of urban local bodies, the contribution of sanitation workers and the active participation of citizens in improving cleanliness across the three cities, an official statement said.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the residents, public representatives, officials and employees of urban local bodies, and sanitation workers in the three cities.
He said the recognition honours the hard work of sanitation workers who work every day to keep cities clean, as well as citizens who have taken responsibility for maintaining cleanliness.
Sai also said cleanliness is directly linked to public health, dignity and quality of life. He emphasised the importance of collective awareness and participation in keeping homes, neighbourhoods, markets and public spaces clean.
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, who also holds the Urban Administration and Development portfolio, described the selection of the three cities for national awards as an encouraging achievement for the state's urban administration.
He said the state government aims to make cleanliness an integral part of the regular functioning of cities and people's daily lives, rather than limiting it to special campaigns or survey periods.
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has formally informed the state government about the selection of the three cities through a letter, the official statement said.
The ministry's Secretary, Satendra Singh, also appreciated the sanitation initiatives undertaken in the state and public participation.
Four representatives from each award-winning city will have the opportunity to receive the honour on stage at the ceremony, the statement added. (with inputs from media organisations)