The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS), along with Kasturba Hospital, Kasturba Nursing College, and Kasturba Nursing School, concluded Swachhata Pakhwada (April 1–15, 2025) with a distinguished visit by Dr. Alok Mathur, Additional Deputy Director General (MoHFW), Government of India, who lauded the institute’s commitment to cleanliness, public outreach, healthservices, and Gandhian values.
During his visit on 15 April 2025, Dr. Mathur reviewed the range of cleanliness and awareness activities carried out during the fortnight and interacted with faculty and staff. He expressed his appreciation, saying, “It is truly inspiring to witness MGIMS standing as a model of how deeply-rooted ideals can create a lasting impact on health systems.”
Swachhata Pakhwada at MGIMS was marked by extensive cleaning drives across hospital corridors, operation theatres, hostels, and teaching areas. Faculty, staff, and students of MGIMS and associated institutions participated in shramdan, spreading the message of hygiene and sanitation through both action and outreach. Public education efforts included hand hygiene demonstrations, health talks, well chlorination, and awareness sessions on plastic elimination across villages like Mandaogad, Kurzadi, Mahakal, and Bhankheda. Nursing and medical students, ANMs, ASHAs, and social workers played a vital role in engaging communities and empowering them with simple, preventive health measures.
A major highlight of the fortnight was the observance of World Health Day on April 7, with the theme “Healthy Beginnings and Healthy Futures.” A spirited Walkathon was flagged off by Dr. B S Garg (Secretary, Kasturba Health Society), Dr. A K Shukla (Dean, MGIMS), and Dr. Poonam Shivkumar Varma (Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital). Over 300 participants carried placards and raised slogans addressing maternal and newborn health issues like postpartum hemorrhage, sepsis, hypertension in pregnancy, and infant mortality.
Emphasizing the institute’s commitment to long-term sustainability, Dr. B S Garg announced, “As we continue to work towards a cleaner and healthier environment, we are also taking a greener step. We shall soon be getting the plastic waste generated at the institute recycled to ensure responsible disposal and a reduced environmental footprint.”