CSIR-IIIM, APEDA organise Swachhata Hi Seva programme at Palam Farm Leh

LEH: Cleanliness and environmental hygiene were emphasised at a Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 programme organised at the CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) Experimental R&D Station at Palam Farm, Leh, on Friday to mark Gandhi Jayanti.

The cleanliness and awareness programme was organised by CSIR-IIIM, Palam Farm, in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

The programme was attended by women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and farm workers, along with Zabir Ahmad of CSIR-IIIM Experimental R&D Station, Palam Farm, and Dr Tsewang Rigzin of APEDA.

Addressing the participants, Ahmad stressed that maintaining a clean environment was a collective responsibility. He underlined the need to keep the farm and its surrounding areas clean, hygienic and free from pollution to support a healthy and sustainable environment.

Dr Tsewang Rigzin highlighted the close link between environmental hygiene and public health, noting that clean surroundings can help reduce pollution, support healthier living conditions and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

The programme also sought to raise awareness among farm workers and SHG members about the importance of maintaining cleanliness and adopting sustainable practices in their daily activities.

The initiative reflected the efforts of CSIR-IIIM under the Ministry of Science and Technology and APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to promote cleanliness, environmental awareness and sustainable practices.

The programme concluded with a message underscoring the collective responsibility of individuals and communities in maintaining clean surroundings for a healthier and sustainable future.