DRDA's Initiative Yields Positive Feedbacks New definition of cleanliness dawns
Source: The Sangai Express / S Singlianmang Guite

Imphal, November 05 2010: The traditional trash bin and a model lane at Kawnpui villageLamka, Oct 5: Behind the month long cleanliness competition initiated by the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), an increasing number of villages and its inhabitants have woken up to the benefits of maintaining hygiene and sanitation.

The other attraction, which in fact was the first factor before, is half-a-lakh cash prize that is on offer.

'Ever since enrolling ourselves in the competition, we have advised all residents to use only the waste-bins to dispose their trash whether at home or in public places.

We also approached the school authorities here to announce the 'advise' to their students so that even those who are from outside the village will conform to it as we do,' an elderly man of Kawnpui village told The Sangai Express during the concluding inspection tour today.

The traditional trash bin and a model lane at Kawnpui village

'Started way back in early October, cleanliness and hygiene have become part of our life or say a habit,' he added.

His village has, since the competition, witnessed an exceptional facelift with flower pots replacing the filth that once dotted the village lanes.

Others shared his sentiment as well.

The village chairman of Ramthar Veng said his village was exploring all possible options to go beyond the competition.

We have set November as the deadline to remove all the pig stys that are close to the road and human habitation,' he said.

A unique, traditional and eco-friendly thrash-bins have been put up along the sides of the vilage lanes.

The traditional bins made from bamboo are utilised on mass scale for the first time, which could very well be dubbed as an invention of the competition, was utilised by just two villages.

The other being, Molnom.

Throughout the sixty villages that enrolled for the competition, the initial talk of winning the cash prizes have to a great extend replaced by its startling influence and the changes it has brought on the villages.

There are several villages that fail to present any marked changes, while there are others where there is great scope for improvement.

The local journalist union, the district council, and the district's apex student body have assisted the DRDA in conducting the competition, results for which will be announced in due course.

The district administration is working on a grand prize distribution slated for 16 November, official sources said.