DBT Marks Swachhata Pakhwada 2026 with Cleanliness and Community Initiatives

Senior officials of DBT closely monitored the progress of the campaign and regularly reviewed the activities conducted by participating institutions.

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, observed Swachhata Pakhwada 2026 from May 1 to May 15 at its headquarters in New Delhi and across its Autonomous Institutions (AIs) and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). The nationwide campaign was conducted under the Government of India's Swachh Bharat Mission and followed the guidelines and calendar issued by the Cabinet Secretariat.

The fortnight-long programme began with a pledge-taking ceremony at DBT headquarters in the CGO Complex, New Delhi. Officers and staff members participated in the event and collectively reaffirmed their commitment to cleanliness, discipline and civic responsibility. The ceremony created a positive atmosphere and encouraged active participation in the activities planned throughout the Pakhwada.

Awareness Campaigns, Health Initiatives and Community Participation

A wide range of activities were carried out by DBT and its institutions during the two-week campaign. The programmes focused on maintaining clean surroundings, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging responsible waste management practices.

Health check-up camps, tree plantation drives, signature campaigns and environment awareness lectures were organized at different locations. Participants also attended guest talks highlighting the importance of reducing single-use plastic and workshops focused on stress management and personal well-being. Several institutions distributed jute bags to encourage sustainable alternatives to plastic.

Creative initiatives received strong participation from students and staff members. Painting competitions, essay writing, poem writing and slogan writing contests helped spread awareness about cleanliness among young people. Activities showcasing innovative reuse of materials also drew attention, including the transformation of discarded wooden packing materials into decorative plant pots. Competitions based on the theme of "Waste to Wealth" encouraged participants to explore practical ways of recycling and reusing resources.

Many institutions extended their efforts beyond their campuses. Special sessions on laboratory waste management were conducted, while renovation work was undertaken in toilets and classrooms of nearby government schools, helping improve facilities for students and local communities.

Top Performing Institutions Honoured by DBT

Senior officials of DBT closely monitored the progress of the campaign and regularly reviewed the activities conducted by participating institutions. Meetings were held during the Pakhwada to motivate participants and ensure effective implementation of the planned programmes.

A committee was constituted to evaluate the performance of participating offices and identify the best performers according to the prescribed guidelines. Based on their efforts and contributions during the campaign, three institutions were selected for recognition.

BRIC–National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) secured the first position, followed by BRIC–National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) in second place and BRIC–Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) in third place. The awards were presented by the Secretary, DBT, during a formal ceremony held on June 2, 2026.

The successful observance of Swachhata Pakhwada 2026 reflected the commitment of DBT and its institutions towards creating cleaner workplaces, raising environmental awareness and encouraging community participation through meaningful action.