With Arunachal achieving open defection free (ODF) status under Swacch Bharat Mission (Gramin), the focus has now shifted to the urban areas. The rural Arunachal has shown path to rest of state by warmly embracing cleanliness movement started by the government. Arunachal has achieved ODF status much ahead of national target which is a huge achievement considering its history of often failing to properly implement govt. schemes and policies.
As the focus shifts to urban areas, the Governor Dr BD Mishra is taking lead role in the cleanliness movement. He has been continuously participating in cleanliness drive in capital complex under the theme ‘Hamara Elan Swachhta aur Nari Utthan.’ The active participation of Governor will definitely inspire the people of Arunachal to take cleanliness as subject more seriously. Urban areas especially twin town of Itanagar and Naharlagun are struggling in the cleanliness index. The task ahead for Itanagar Municipal Council and Urban Development Department is huge. The citizens of capital complex also need to play active part and make cleanliness a habit. If city remains clean, it will only make citizens healthier. People should not just leave cleanliness matter to IMC and UD department and shrink away from their responsibilities. Though Itanagar has achieved some success in cleanliness index but there is long way to go. Hopefully with the active support of prominent citizens like Governor Mishra, the capital region will soon achieve ODF status.