PM Modi's cleanliness call transforms government offices, turning junkyards into courtyards

Government offices in India have undergone a remarkable transformation following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cleanliness initiative, converting areas filled with junk and discarded items into functional spaces like courtyards and staff lounges. For instance, the Dak Bhawan Annexe building witnessed the conversion of a 1,600-square-foot dumpyard above the 'Sancharika canteen' into a staff lounge known as 'vishrantika.' Similarly, Rail Bhawan, home to the Ministry of Railways, showcased state-of-the-art office cabins and well-organized record rooms through continuous cleanliness activities. Several other ministries, including the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), and Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), actively participated in the cleanliness campaigns, resulting in innovative initiatives like gyms, recreational rooms, and modern washrooms.

The cleanliness drive extended beyond physical spaces, addressing grievance redressal and efficiency. Railway Board Secretary Milind K Deouskar highlighted the beautification of office spaces, creation of modern washrooms, and emphasis on grievance redressal during the campaign. The DoT carved out a gym and recreational room from dumpyards and parking spaces at the Sanchar Bhawan, while CBIC and CBDT focused on institutionalizing cleanliness and minimizing pendency. In total, the cleanliness campaigns from 2021 to 2023 showcased significant success stories in digitization, efficient office space management, environmental practices, and revenue generation from scrap disposal.