Khilwa Gram Panchayat sets example for the entire state in cleanliness: Sharan Kumar

Khilwa Gram Panchayat in Sitamarhi block of Siwan has set a unique example in the field of cleanliness across the state. By making regular sanitation services, local-level maintenance, and the respect of sanitation workers the foundation of its work, the Panchayat has firmly implemented the objectives of ODF Plus at the grassroots level. The arrangements here are not limited to cleanliness alone; rather, they have become an excellent model of self-reliance and community participation. The Waste Processing Unit (WPU) established under the Lohiya Suchh Bihar campaign in Siwan’s Khilwa Panchayat is attracting everyone with its unique design and operation. Here, waste generated from households is being scientifically segregated to prepare the best organic manure. A beautiful garden has been created in front of this unit, decorated with colorful flowers and plants, giving people a park-like feel. According to Mukhiya Amit Singh, an agreement has been signed with a local nursery operator for the sale of organic manure produced in the Panchayat, ensuring local consumption of manure.

The biggest feature of the cleanliness model in Khilwa is the cleanliness clinic established in the WPU campus, where all necessary construction materials such as toilet seats, pipes, doors, cement, bricks, and rods are available at affordable prices under one roof to repair minor defects in toilets built in people's homes. To ensure that there is no disruption in service if garbage collection hand carts, tricycles, and e-rickshaws break down, complete arrangements for puncture kits, tools, and mechanics have been ensured within the premises. According to the Panchayat Mukhiya, sanitation workers have been given special training to repair and service garbage-filled vehicles, which has enabled them to earn additional income by repairing vehicles of other nearby Panchayats. On the other hand, for financial transparency and self-reliance, the Panchayat has taken digital steps and implemented a QR code-based user charge system. QR codes are pasted on the identity cards of sanitation workers and their vehicles, through which people deposit money directly into the Panchayat account. The Mukhiya said that approximately 4 lakh rupees have been collected in this regard so far, which is being used for Panchayat maintenance. In addition, half of the amount received for special cleanliness services at events like weddings is being given to the Panchayat fund, and the remaining half is being given directly to the concerned sanitation workers.

In this regard, Minister of Rural Development, Information, and Public Relations Sharan Kumar said that the model presented by Khilwa Gram Panchayat in Siwan in the field of cleanliness is an inspiration for the entire state. The Lohiya Suchh Bihar campaign launched under the leadership of our leader and former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has today taken the form of a public movement, and it is a highly commendable step. The government is fully committed to preparing a strong system in other rural areas in the same manner so that our rural environment can become cleaner, more beautiful, and self-reliant.