CHANDIGARH, 15.04.25-“Cleanliness is a reflection of our commitment to health and well-being,” stated Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, during the Swachhata Awards Ceremony held today. This celebration capped off PGIMER’s observance of Swachhata Pakhwada from April 1 to April 15, 2025, in line with the Government of India’s initiative to enhance hygiene, sanitation, and environmental awareness.
“This initiative allows us to not only contribute to a healthier environment but also empowers our staff and community to embrace sustainable practices,” added Prof. Lal, while gracing as the Chief Guest at the ceremony.
The Awards Ceremony recognized 55 dedicated housekeeping and sanitation workers with the ‘Best Worker ’ award, while also celebrating the winners of various competitions, evaluators, and organizers as a gesture of gratitude. Present at the ceremony were Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics) and Sh. Pankaj Rai (IAS), Deputy Director (Administration), PGIMER
Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Head of the Department of Hospital Administration at PGIMER , emphasized the importance of sanitation workers, stating, “They are the invisible pillars of any healthcare system. Their dedication ensures that we provide a safe, infection-free environment for our patients. Honoring them is not just an act of recognition; it reaffirms our respect for dignity, hard work, and service.”
The Swachhata Pakhwada observance began on April 1, with PGIMER's administration and staff taking the Swachhata Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to cleanliness in professional and personal spheres. To promote this message, standees featuring Swachhata Pakhwada themes were strategically displayed throughout the campus.
The fortnight featured extensive cleanliness drives across various areas, including residential quarters, hostels, hospital blocks, canteens, and public facilities, all aimed at fostering a culture of hygiene among staff, students, and visitors.
A notable event was the Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir, a health check-up camp held on April 2 and 3 for the Institute’s outsourced housekeeping and sanitation workers. Over 500 workers benefited from health screenings, dietary advice, and referrals for further investigations, demonstrating PGIMER’s commitment to staff welfare and occupational health.
The observance also included various engaging educational competitions, such as a handwashing quiz, biomedical waste management quiz, poster-making, debates, poetry, slogan writing, rangoli, and a ‘Best out of Waste’ challenge. These activities saw enthusiastic participation from staff and their families, with cash prizes and certificates awarded to the winners.