New Delhi is buzzing with activity as preparations intensify for the upcoming “Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar” (SSSS) campaign and the India International Science Festival. Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, recently chaired a high-level review meeting to ensure seamless coordination and broad public engagement for both national initiatives.
The meeting, convened at Prithvi Bhawan, focused on the roadmap for the 2026 edition of the nationwide coastal cleanup campaign. This campaign is scheduled to run from September 12 to 19, culminating on International Coastal Cleanup Day. Senior officials and scientists from the Ministry of Earth Sciences and its affiliated institutes were present, alongside representatives from the Indian Coast Guard, Seema Jagran Manch, Paryavaran Sanrakshan Gatividhi, VIBHA, and other key stakeholder organizations. Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Joint Secretary of MoES, D. Senthil Pandiyan, and Scientist G Dr. Jagvir Singh also participated in the discussions. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the level of collaboration reflects the commitment to make the ocean clean and safe.
According to reports, the 2026 campaign is envisioned as a week-long nationwide movement spanning India’s extensive 11,098 km coastline. It aims to foster active involvement from Central and State Ministries, academic and research institutions, district administrations, youth organizations, and local communities. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that this campaign underscores a growing national dedication to coastal conservation and marine ecological security.
A presentation during the meeting assessed the progress of the 2025 campaign, which is being coordinated by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR). (NCCR reported that the Sagar App, a citizen-science platform, has been instrumental in documenting the removal of more than 150 tonnes of marine litter from coastal regions.) The Sagar App is a tool for promoting environment safety.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the campaign, operating under the PRITHVI scheme, effectively blends scientific monitoring with robust public participation. This synergy supports long-term endeavors related to seawater quality assessment, marine litter management, and mitigation of coastal hazards, including shoreline erosion. He advocated for greater involvement from NCC, NSS, educational institutions, volunteer groups, and civil society organizations to amplify the campaign’s reach and impact across the nation.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a sustainable Blue Economy, Dr. Jitendra Singh affirmed that India’s coastal initiatives are becoming a paradigm of community-driven environmental stewardship, bolstered by scientific institutions and technology-enabled participation. This approach not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also strategically aligns with broader economic and sustainability goals, fostering a harmonious balance between economic development and ecological preservation.
The India International Science Festival (IISF) was also a key topic during the review meeting. The IISF is a platform designed to stimulate interest in science and technology among students, researchers, and the general public. The festival typically features a wide array of events, including exhibitions, conferences, workshops, and competitions, all aimed at showcasing the latest advancements and promoting scientific temper. By fostering a vibrant environment for scientific engagement, the IISF aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators, while also highlighting the importance of science in addressing societal challenges.
The success of both the “Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar” campaign and the India International Science Festival relies heavily on effective coordination and widespread participation. The Ministry of Earth Sciences and other involved organizations are working diligently to ensure that all logistical and operational aspects are meticulously planned and executed. This includes mobilizing resources, engaging with stakeholders at all levels, and leveraging technology to enhance the reach and impact of these initiatives.
As India continues to prioritize environmental sustainability and scientific advancement, these national initiatives serve as crucial platforms for driving positive change and fostering a sense of collective responsibility. The “Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar” campaign aims to protect and preserve India’s coastal resources, while the India International Science Festival seeks to ignite a passion for science and innovation among its citizens. Through concerted efforts and collaborative partnerships, India is paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more scientifically advanced future.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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