Nagaland University conducted a mass cleanliness drive at its headquarters in Lumami as part of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026, with faculty, staff and students undertaking special cleanliness activities across their respective departments and offices.

The cleanliness drive was followed by a brief formal programme at the lobby of the Administrative Complex, chaired by Dr. Lobeno Mozhui. The programme began with a welcome address by Dr Likhase Sangtam, followed by the mass pledge.

Chief Guest Prof JK Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, stressed that human behaviour has a direct impact on the environment. He said nature has the ability to heal itself, but pollution and accumulated waste disturb the natural balance.

Since everyone is part of the environment, maintaining clean surroundings is a collective responsibility and essential for a peaceful and healthy life, he said, emphasising that cleanliness should be reflected not only in the surroundings but also within oneself.

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Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a clean India through Swachh Bharat, Prof Patnaik said cleanliness should encompass the body, surroundings and the heart.

He urged everyone to play an active role in keeping public spaces clean and not contribute to litter and waste. Instead, people should work towards creating clean and peaceful surroundings where children can play and communities can live comfortably.

“Swachh Bharat is the responsibility of every Indian,” Prof Patnaik said, adding that collective efforts can help make the mission a success.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Peter Ki, PRO, Nagaland University. Statutory Officers, Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff, research scholars and students attended the programme.