Kasturba Health Society successfully observed Swachhta Pakhwada, a fortnight-long cleanliness drive, from April 1st to April 15th, 2024, across Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS), Kasturba Hospital, Kasturba Nursing College, Kasturba Nursing School, and its community centers and adopted villages.

During this period, a diverse range of activities took place in hospitals, departments, and community centers. These initiatives encompassed Swachhata Abhiyan, Swachhata Pledge, demonstrations on handwashing and personal hygiene, cleanliness drives in villages and school premises, and informative sessions on sanitation and environmental cleanliness. Additionally, sessions addressing addiction, anti-spitting, anti-tobacco, and single-use plastic were conducted by students and staff. The institute's active participation extended to their weekly shramdan activities.

Faculty, staff, nurses, and students actively engaged in the swachhata pakhwada activities. Hospital wards, hostels, offices, and auxiliary services underwent meticulous cleaning, ensuring the disposal of unwanted items and fostering a hygienic environment. The institute promoted World Health Day during the Pakhwada by hosting a 25 km cyclathon to Madni village, raising awareness against Non-Communicable Diseases. The nursing staff and students engaged with patients and their relatives within the hospital premises on WHO Day, focusing on the theme "Giving people access to healthcare without the prospect of financial hardship" through informative talks and visually engaging posters.

“Swachha Bharat Mission is our collective responsibility towards ensuring a clean and healthy environment for generations to come”, said Dr BS Garg (Secretary, Kasturba Health Society) while emphasizing the importance of sustaining the momentum generated during Swachhta Pakhwada. He encouraged continued collaboration and engagement to ensure that the principles of cleanliness and hygiene remain ingrained in our daily practices.