UditVani, Jamshedpur : Jharkhand has once again demonstrated remarkable progress in urban sanitation, securing national acclaim in the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25—India’s largest cleanliness assessment initiative. The industrial hub of Jamshedpur clinched the third position among cities with a population between 3 to 10 lakh, while Bundu earned the title of “Promising Clean City”, underscoring the state’s growing commitment to hygiene and civic responsibility.
The prestigious awards were conferred during a national felicitation ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, graced by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.
The event saw the presence of Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, and Ministry Secretary Srinivas Katikithala, who lauded the collective efforts of Jharkhand’s urban bodies and citizens.
Jamshedpur Awarded Five-Star City Tag; Water Plus Status Secured
In addition to its top-three national ranking, Jamshedpur was also honoured with the elite five-star city status—signifying excellence in waste management, sanitation infrastructure, and citizen engagement.
The city was also declared a Water Plus city, recognizing its sustainable sewage treatment and water body protection practices.
Other cities that shone in the survey included Deoghar, Jugsalai, and Chakulia, all of which received one-star ratings, while Bundu, Chirkunda, Rajmahal, Sahebganj, and Deoghar were acknowledged in the ODF++ category, marking their success in maintaining open defecation-free and hygienic environments.
A Transformational Cleanliness Journey Since 2016
Jharkhand’s ascent in the cleanliness rankings marks a transformative shift since 2016, when it remained largely unrecognized in national assessments. Year after year, from 2017 to 2023, the state has made steady gains—thanks to the synergy between urban local bodies, state leadership, and active public participation.
Officials attribute this upward momentum to the vision of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the leadership of Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar, and the relentless efforts of frontline sanitation workers across the state.
Public Cooperation and Institutional Dedication Applauded
At the awards ceremony, Urban Development and Housing Department Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar credited the success to a blend of political will and community involvement. “The collaborative spirit of municipal bodies and citizens has driven this transformation,” he remarked. SUDA Director Suraj Kumar, JNAC Special Officer Krishan Kumar, and officials from Bundu Nagar Panchayat proudly received the awards on behalf of their respective towns.
Sunil Kumar expressed optimism about Jharkhand’s trajectory in future Swachh Survekshan editions, urging all civic bodies to make cleanliness a part of daily governance.
A Model for Sustainable Urban Cleanliness
With accolades like the five-star city tag and Water Plus recognition, Jharkhand is emerging as a model for sustainable, community-driven urban sanitation in India. The recognition of cities like Jamshedpur and Bundu not only celebrates current achievements but also sets the benchmark for aspiring urban centers across the country.
