Bhubaneswar: Asika Municipality in Odisha’s Ganjam district has secured the second position nationally among Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in the 20,000–50,000 population category under the Swachh Survekshan 2025–26, bringing recognition to the district and the state for its efforts in urban cleanliness and sanitation.
The national award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Municipal Chairperson Binita Swain received the recognition along with Special Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department and Mission Director of Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Binay Kumar Dash, Project Director of Ganjam District Urban Development Agency Sameer Kumar Jena, and Asika Municipality In-charge Executive Officer Ashalata Rachamala.
The President presented the delegation with a Mahatma Gandhi statue and a certificate of recognition in acknowledgement of Asika Municipality’s performance in the national cleanliness assessment.
The achievement highlights the collective efforts of sanitation workers and the active involvement of local residents in maintaining cleanliness and improving sanitation standards across the municipality.
Their continued participation and cooperation have played an important role in strengthening the town’s sanitation practices and securing national recognition.
The achievement has also received appreciation from public representatives and district officials. Congratulating Asika Municipality, Ganjam Collector V. Keerthi Vasan described the national recognition as a matter of pride for the district.
He expressed confidence that the accomplishment would provide further momentum to the district’s cleanliness and sanitation initiatives under the “Ama Ganjam, Swachh Ganjam” campaign. He also emphasised the importance of sustainable waste management and the development of clean, healthy and inclusive urban and rural areas.
The recognition is particularly significant as it reflects the importance of community participation in achieving sustainable improvements in sanitation. The contribution of sanitation workers, combined with the cooperation of residents, has been central to the municipality’s efforts to maintain cleanliness and improve local sanitation standards.
Organised under the Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban, Swachh Survekshan 2025–26 marks the 10th edition of India’s annual cleanliness assessment. It is recognised as the world’s largest urban sanitation survey, providing a platform to assess cleanliness and sanitation efforts across Urban Local Bodies.
The theme for this year’s survey, “Swachhata Ki Nayi Pehel – Badhaayein Haath, Karein Safai Saath”, places particular emphasis on citizen participation and healthy competition among cities. It seeks to encourage collective responsibility for cleanliness and strengthen urban sanitation through greater public involvement.
