Union Minister of Finance – Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates Bhart Vann for developing Miyawaki Forest,
Under the nationwide “Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS)” campaign, observed annually from 17th September to 17th October (Swachh Bharat Diwas), New Delhi Municipal Council launched various activities of Plantation Drive, Cleanliness Drive, Public Welfare, Health and Blood Donation Camp, Deep Cleaning of underpass and subway etc., today in its area.
Inauguration of Miyawaki Forest at Lodhi Colony by Finance Minister:
On the occasion of Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign, Hon’ble Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Govt. of India Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated Bharat Vann through Miyawaki Method at Lodhi Colony Park by planting a sapling along with the Chairman, NDMC Manoj Kumar Dwivedi and Vice Chairman NDMC – Kuljeet Singh Chahal and representative of the IIFCL as a supporter by CSR fund. The Miyawaki Method is one of the most effective tree planting methods for creating forest cover quickly on degraded land that has been used for other purposes such as agriculture or construction. It is effective because it is based on natural reforestation principles.On this occasion, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, said, “Today, as we celebrate the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s birthday as Seva Diwas, we have taken a significant step towards creating a Miyawaki Forest by undertaking plantation at a park in Lodhi Colony, Delhi. With the support and guidance of Dr. R. K. Nair, this initiative aims to develop a dense, green urban forest by planting fruit-bearing and shade-giving species suited to the local environment through the Miyawaki method.The Miyawaki technique enables rapid growth of plants, with saplings potentially reaching a height of 10 to 12 feet within about a year under suitable conditions. Once fully developed, this green space will not only provide residents with an ideal setting for morning and evening walks but also create a serene environment for yoga, meditation and other recreational activities.Beyond enhancing the quality and beauty of the neighbourhood, the initiative will contribute to improving Delhi’s urban environment by supporting cleaner air, increasing green cover and strengthening the ecological balance of the area. This is a meaningful step towards creating healthier, greener and more sustainable urban spaces for the people of Delhi.”
Speaking on the occasion, NDMC Vice Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal said that 10,000 native saplings will be planted at ‘Bharat Van’ using the Miyawaki method. The initiative will help develop a dense green area in Lodhi Colony, provide a better environment for plants and birds, and support urban biodiversity. He explained that the Miyawaki method allows a large number of native plants to be grown in a small area. With proper care, it helps in developing a dense green cover in a relatively short period.
Launching of Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign in NDMC area:
After launching the Tree Plantation drive in 14 circles of NDMC area by Planting a Sapling of Champa in Nehru Park, Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, Chairperson, NDMC said that “Two values that our Hon’ble Prime Minister has consistently emphasised are Swachhata (cleanliness) and Seva (service). Keeping these guiding principles in mind, the New Delhi Municipal Council has launched a month-long ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign from 17 September to 17 October 2026, coinciding with his 76th birthday. Throughout this period, NDMC will undertake a series of cleanliness and civic-engagement initiatives with active Jan Bhagidari, encouraging citizens to take responsibility for maintaining a clean, healthy and sustainable environment around them.Our cleanliness efforts will extend beyond the main roads to every street, lane and sub-lane within the NDMC area. During the BRICS Summit, NDMC successfully experimented with night-time sanitation operations, and based on the encouraging experience, this initiative will now be expanded and implemented on a wider scale to further strengthen cleanliness and sanitation services, added Dwivedi.
"Today, keeping the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s 76th birthday in view, 760 trees have been planted across all 14 NDMC circles, along with more than 5,000 saplings and shrubs, giving a strong impetus to our efforts towards creating a greener and more sustainable New Delhi.Planting a tree is only the beginning; its real value lies in nurturing and protecting it. I have personally planted a tree today and will take responsibility for its care and growth. I appeal to everyone who participates in plantation drives to similarly adopt and nurture the trees they plant. Such personal ownership not only ensures the survival of the saplings but also strengthens the spirit of Jan Bhagidari and collective responsibility." , said NDMC Chairman.Dwivedi informed that in the same spirit, NDMC officers will also adopt public toilet facilities in their respective areas and personally monitor their cleanliness, maintenance and other essential requirements. Through these initiatives, we seek to transform civic responsibility into a people-driven movement and make Swachh, Hariit and Seva-oriented New Delhi a shared commitment of the entire community.”
Earlier in the morning, Shri Satendra Singh, Secretary, Department of Urban Development, Ms. D. Thara, Secretary, Department of Capital Development and Shri Ashok Kumar Meena, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation , Govt. of India were also took part in the tree plantation drive to mark the sewa diwas under the Swachhta Hi Sewa Campaign at Children Park , India Gate in New Delhi .
28 Sanitation workers felicitated by Chairman, NDMC:
NDMC Council Member, Anil Valmiki informed that on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the successful and Prime Minister, Narendra Modi Ji, an employee felicitation ceremony was organized at the main entrance of the historic Valmiki Temple. All senior employees who are due to retire in the near future were also felicitated by the NDMC Chairman, Manoj Kumar Dwivedi. NDMC Chairman, Vice-Chairman - Kuljeet Singh Chahal, Council Members - Dinesh Partap Singh , Sarita Tomar and Secretary - Rahul Singh were present as the chief guests. During the ceremony, 28 sanitation workers, along with employees from various other departments of the Council, were felicitated. The Chief Engineer (Electrical) was also honored. To boost the morale of the employees, Chairman shared very inspiring and thoughtful views, which served as a great source of motivation for everyone present.
Organises Blood Donation Camp at Charak Palika Hospital :
As another important component of the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign, the NDMC in collaboration with the Indian Red Cross Society, organised a Blood Donation Camp at Charak Palika Hospital, Moti Bagh. On the occasion, Chairman, NDMC, Shri Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, Secretary - Shri Rahul Singh voluntarily donated blood and encouraged citizens and members of the community to come forward and donate blood, contributing to the noble cause of saving lives. The initiative further reinforced the spirit of public participation, voluntary service and social responsibility embodied in the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in serving society.
Felicitates 54 winners of Hindi Competition:
To encourage the use of Hindi language in day to day official working, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Chairperson, Manoj Kumar Dwivedi distributed prizes among the 54 winners of Hindi Competitions conducted as part of Hindi Pakhwada – 2026 in a function organized by Hindi Department at NDMC Convention Center, Jai Singh Road, New Delhi today.NDMC organized various Hindi Competitions consisting of Essay writing, Poem, and Debate for its employees in the Hindi Pakhwada. More than 1,000 employees of various levels and fields like engineering, education, administration, accounts, finance, information technology, fire & security and medical services participated in these competitions.
“Swachhta Samvad Evam Puraskar Vitaran Samaroh” at AABV Mandir Marg
NDMC organised a special “Swachhta Samvad Evam Puraskar Vitaran Samaroh” today at AABV Mandir Marg, bringing together sanitation workers, students and citizens to celebrate the spirit of cleanliness, service and community participation. The programme was featured an interactive Swachhta Samvad focused on sharing ideas, experiences and practical solutions for strengthening cleanliness initiatives, along with a felicitation ceremony to honour contributions towards creating a cleaner and healthier New Delhi. The event also showcased students’ creative presentations and participation in the Swachh Vidyalaya–Sashakt Samaj initiative. The programme organised under the broader message of “Swachhta, Seva, Samman aur Behtar Kal”, reaffirming NDMC’s commitment to building a clean, healthy and sustainable civic environment through collective responsibility. Paying tribute to the dedication of sanitation personnel, the event will encourage citizens, students and community stakeholders to actively participate in cleanliness drives and adopt responsible civic practices.
Launching of Deep Cleaning of Yashwant Place Market along with underpass and subway:
NDMC has launched an intensive deep-cleaning and rejuvenation drive at Yashwant Place Market, covering the market area as well as all adjoining underpasses and subways.The comprehensive initiative includes Intensive cleaning and wet washing, Removal of stains and accumulated dirt, Repair and maintenance works, Removal of encroachments, Ensuring adequate lighting and improved visibility, Overall improvement of cleanliness, hygiene and public convenience. The drive aims to create a cleaner, safer and more welcoming environment for residents, visitors, traders and commuters.
