The National Zoological Park (NZP), New Delhi, today inaugurated Swachhata Pakhwada 2026, a fifteen-day cleanliness and environmental awareness campaign being observed from 01.06.2016 to 15.06.2026, with the objective of promoting cleanliness, environmental stewardship, sustainable lifestyles and public participation in conservation initiatives in alignment with the vision of Swachh Bharat Mission and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).

The programme commenced with a Mass Swachhata Pledge administered to participants, followed by an orientation session introducing the objectives and activities planned during the fortnight. A painting competition on the theme “Pollution among National Parks and Sanctuaries – Protected areas” was also organized to encourage students to creatively express their concerns and solutions regarding environmental pollution. A total of 44 students from 23 schools participated in painting and poster making competitions.

Over the next fifteen days, a wide range of educational, awareness, and participatory activities will be conducted involving school students, zoo visitors, staff members, and stakeholders. These activities include:

 

• Nukkad Natak (street play) on the theme of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Expert awareness programmes on butterflies, moths, and fireflies to highlight the ecological significance of insects.
• “Plogging” activities within the zoo premises, combining walking with litter collection.
• Clay modelling competitions focusing on wildlife and birds.
• Screening of Mission LiFE educational videos.
• Guided zoo visits emphasizing wildlife conservation and habitat cleanliness.
• Essay writing and painting competitions on Swachh Bharat and clean zoo themes.
• Special activities for visitors including doodle campaigns and environmental awareness interactions.
• Celebration of World Environment Day (5 June 2026) with a Mass Swachhata Pledge by zoo staff in all sections, plantation of 100 trees in animal houses under the nationwide campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, and comprehensive cleanliness drives undertaken across all sections of the National Zoological Park to promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
• Student talks on Mission LiFE and exhibitions showcasing outcomes of various activities.
• Concluding Mission LiFE Pledge on 06 June 2026.
• Awareness programmes on Mission LiFE for zoo visitors.
• Cleaning campaigns at ponds and wetlands within the National Zoological Park to promote ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation.
• Quiz activities on Mission LiFE and environmental sustainability.
• Segregation of obsolete and unserviceable items for auction.

 

 

The Swachhata Pakhwada seeks to foster environmental responsibility among participants while encouraging behavioural change towards cleaner surroundings, reduced waste generation, improved sanitation practices, and sustainable lifestyles. Through educational outreach, community participation, and practical conservation activities, the National Zoological Park aims to strengthen public awareness regarding the importance of cleanliness and environmental protection.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director of the National Zoological Park emphasized that cleanliness and conservation are closely interconnected and that every citizen has a role to play in protecting the environment for future generations.

The National Zoological Park invites students, visitors, and stakeholders to actively participate in the various activities planned during the fortnight and contribute towards building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

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VM/GS

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