Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jul 17: In a proud moment for Goa, Panaji has been declared the Cleanest City in India in the 50,000 to 2 lakh population category at the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024–25, held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu.

Urban Development Minister Vishwajit Rane, along with Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) Mayor Rohit Monserrate and CCP Commissioner Clen Madeira, received the award on behalf of the city.

Calling it a “moment of immense pride,” Rane hailed the recognition as a validation of the persistent efforts and impactful reforms carried out under the Swachh Bharat Mission. In a post on X, he credited the win to initiatives like door-to-door waste collection, Garbage-Free City certification, and the scientific management of waste, stating that Panaji has now become a model for urban cleanliness.

He expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for his leadership and praised Mayor Rohit Monserrate’s proactive role in ensuring city-wide waste segregation discipline. Rane also extended appreciation to residents, sanitation workers, and civic officials whose joint efforts led to this achievement.

“This is more than an award; it reflects Panaji’s commitment to cleanliness and sustainability,” Rane said. “We will continue on this path with renewed energy to realize the goal of a Swachh and Viksit Goa, in line with the national vision of a Viksit Bharat.”