Nancowry, July 12: In a significant step towards strengthening sanitation and environmental sustainability in the remote tribal region of Nancowry, the Solid Waste Management (SWM) operations under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase-II was formally inaugurated at Kamorta Bazar on July 11. The initiative marks the beginning of an organized system for collection, segregation and scientific management of rural solid waste across the Nancowry region.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Kshitij Gyanraj Sa, Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry, in the presence of Chairpersons of Tribal Councils, Heads of Departments, representatives of the Market Association and members of the general public.
The project has been conceptualized under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase-II in convergence with the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) under the overall guidance of Shri. Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobars. The initiative seeks to establish an efficient and sustainable waste management system in the region while encouraging active participation from the local tribal community.
As part of the programme, sanitary workers identified from the local tribal community have been engaged to undertake door-to-door collection of segregated waste from households, commercial establishments and institutions. During the inaugural ceremony, the Assistant Commissioner distributed uniforms, caps, gloves and other protective equipment to the sanitation workforce, collectively designated as “Ihi–Inchon Swachh Sena.” The project is being implemented in close coordination with the Tribal Councils of Nancowry and Kamorta to ensure community ownership and long-term sustainability.
A set of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) pamphlets on waste segregation, household responsibilities and proper waste disposal practices was also released on the occasion to create awareness among the public.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Ayesha Majid, Chairperson, Tribal Council, Nancowry, and Shri. Charles Jacob, Chairperson, Tribal Council, Kamorta, appreciated the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for introducing a structured waste management system in the region. They assured the Administration of the Tribal Councils’ full cooperation in mobilizing community participation and promoting responsible waste management practices.
In his address, Dr. Kshitij Gyanraj Sa, Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry, urged the public to adopt source segregation as a daily habit, avoid indiscriminate disposal of waste and cooperate with the sanitation workers during door-to-door collection. He stated that the initiative is not merely about waste collection but about fostering a culture of cleanliness, environmental responsibility and public health. Earlier, welcoming the gathering, Shri Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer, Nancowry, outlined the various components of the Solid Waste Management project.
Following the inaugural programme, a Mega Cleanliness Drive was organized at Kamorta Bazar and its surrounding areas with active participation from officials, Tribal Council members, sanitation workers and local residents. A tree plantation drive was also conducted to reinforce the message of environmental conservation and sustainable development. A theme song on safe sanitation practices and importance of cleanliness in local Nicobari language was also launched during the event.