The Department of Food and Public Distribution has launched the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva-2026’ campaign across the country. The initiative, coordinated with other government departments, aims to shift how people think about and behave towards cleanliness and sanitation. It affects all employees of the department, its public sector companies, and the broader public.
Campaign theme and structure
The campaign runs under the theme ‘Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat’ (Cleanliness Through Participation, Clean India, Developed India). It focuses on changing attitudes and habits around sanitation rather than only conducting one-off cleaning drives. The department is working within guidelines set by the Department of Urban Development and the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
The campaign has six pillars, one of which specifically addresses the wellbeing, health and social security of Safai Mitras—sanitation workers. The Department of Food and Public Distribution has organised workshops for these workers to explain government welfare schemes and benefits they are entitled to access.
Activities already undertaken
Since mid-September 2026, various activities have taken place:
- The Secretary of the Department administered a cleanliness pledge to officials on 17 September at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, followed by a cleaning drive
- Officials participated in a slogan competition on cleanliness on 18 September
- The Central Warehousing Corporation conducted a beautification drive and painting competition in Delhi
- The Indian Grain Storage Management and Research Institute held cleanliness drives, art competitions in schools, and awareness programmes at its locations in Ludhiana and Hyderabad
- The Food Corporation of India organised health check-up camps for sanitation workers and their families across multiple offices and depots
- Quality Control Cell offices conducted pledge ceremonies and weekly cleanliness commitments
What this means for you
If you work in food storage, grain management, food distribution or related government sectors, you will be expected to take part in cleanliness activities and pledge your commitment. If you are a sanitation worker employed by these departments or their partner organisations, the campaign includes specific focus on your health benefits and access to social welfare schemes. For the general public, the initiative is seeking greater participation in community cleanliness efforts.