A large-scale Swachh Tourism Campaign was organised on Saturday at Sanchi, the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, with active participation from the local community, tourism stakeholders and government agencies. The initiative, jointly organised by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) and the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), aimed to promote clean, environment-friendly and single-use plastic-free tourism destinations across the state while encouraging greater community participation in responsible tourism practices.
The campaign witnessed the participation of officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), representatives of the Gram Panchayat, sanitation workers, NCC cadets, students, local citizens, tourism industry representatives and volunteers, who collectively undertook cleanliness activities across the Sanchi Stupa complex and surrounding areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ilaiyaraja T., Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said, “This campaign, which has commenced from Sanchi, is an important step towards community-led clean tourism. Going forward, similar campaigns will be organised every month at one major tourism destination across Madhya Pradesh. Our objective is not only to maintain the cleanliness of monuments but also to work towards making Madhya Pradesh the cleanest state in the country.”
He further added, “Sanchi is India’s first Solar City and holds immense significance for Buddhism, attracting devotees and visitors from around the world. The cleanliness and preservation of such World Heritage Sites is a shared responsibility. Through active participation of local communities, we aim to transform cleanliness and environmental conservation into a collective movement. Sustainable cleanliness at tourism destinations can only be achieved when local citizens, shopkeepers, tourists and the administration work together. By adopting eco-friendly alternatives, we can make clean tourism a true people’s movement.”
Swachhata Pledge Marks The Beginning Of The Campaign
The programme commenced with a Swachhata Pledge, where participants resolved to keep tourism destinations clean, beautiful and free from plastic waste. This was followed by a collective cleanliness drive at the Sanchi Stupa complex, with officials from MPTB, ASI, Gram Panchayat representatives, sanitation workers, tourism stakeholders, local citizens, NCC cadets and volunteers joining hands to spread the message of responsible tourism.
To strengthen waste management efforts, new dustbins were installed across the monument complex. In a bid to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices, cloth bags were distributed to local shopkeepers, encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly alternatives instead of single-use plastic.
Participants also undertook a cleanliness march up to Jambu Dweep Park, creating awareness among tourists and local residents about cleanliness, responsible tourism and environmental conservation.
Students Spread The Message Through Creative Expression
To engage the younger generation in the campaign, a painting and essay competition on the theme “Clean Tourism – Clean India” was organised at the Government Excellence School in Sanchi. Students used creative expression to communicate messages of cleanliness, sustainable tourism and environmental protection. Winners were honoured with prizes and certificates for their outstanding participation.
Public Participation Essential For Clean Tourism
Speaking at the event, Ravi Gosain, President, IATO, said that cleanliness at tourism destinations strengthens India’s positive image globally. He remarked, “Swachh Tourism, Pride of the Nation, is not merely a slogan but a collective commitment. It is our shared responsibility to create awareness about cleanliness. Madhya Pradesh is among the states effectively promoting such initiatives, and similar campaigns will be organised at other major tourism destinations in the future.”
He also encouraged students and local communities to continue supporting the movement and thanked all partner organisations, volunteers, students and community members for their contribution.
A Successful Example Of Government And Community Collaboration
The programme was attended by Dr. Shivkant Vajpayee, Superintending Archaeologist, ASI, Vinay Tyagi, Honorary Joint Secretary, IATO, and Mahendra Pratap Singh, Chairman, IATO Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh Chapter, along with officials from the Tourism Department, local citizens, Gram Panchayat representatives, sanitation workers, NCC cadets, shopkeepers, volunteers and tourism industry stakeholders.
