An IAS officer in the holy city of Varanasi has found the perfect formula to introduce school kids to the right path that will one day help them prosper in a healthier environment.
IAS officer Himanshu Nagpal, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Varanasi, has organised a competition based on the theme “Kabaad Se Jugaad” under the Swachch Bharat Mission.
KABAAD SE JUGAAD
Not just students but even their teachers were welcomed to take part in the program that is teaching sustainable practices in government schools. Schools from all eight blocks of the district are taking part in the competition.
“Learning how to reuse and recycle everything around us has become absolutely necessary as we plan to save Mother Earth, which is burdened with mostly man-made waste,” Mr. Nagpal told Indian Masterminds in an exclusive chat.
The beautification of Varanasi for the G20 Summit turned out to be the inspiration for the kids’ recycle models.
The competition began on April 10, and the results will be announced on May 15. The block-level review will take place on May 10, and the district-level evaluation will take place on May 21. Every government school is taking part in the event, the officer added.
RIGHT MOTIVATION
“The goal was to motivate students to understand the concept, wake up to their responsibilities and also imbibe the joy of making their planet a better place. Once aware they will adapt this in their lives and never discard it,” Mr. Nagpal said.
The winning school will receive a cash reward of Rs. 3.5 lakh that could be utilised to enhance school facilities and also purchase smart-class equipment like projectors, smart TVs, and benches, among others.
EXHIBITS
The best out-of-waste creations will adorn the school premises. From flower pots to swings to hanging vertical gardens made from bottles, created by the school kids, says the officer.
“The objective is also to ensure that small products necessary in classrooms are created from recycled materials so that they continue to inspire the students and the exercise ‘Kabaad Se Jugaad’ does not end with this one-of-one-time practice,” the IAS officer added.
BIGGER MOVEMENT
All eight blocks have constructed plastic waste management units. In an inter-school competition, the most plastic collecting school will be awarded, Mr. Nagpal said.
Plastic garbage collected from schools will be transferred to a plastic waste management plant and used in road projects and cement manufacturing. Profits from it will be returned to schools for school improvement.
POSITIVE IMPACT
The competition has not only beautified the schools but also the minds of young and old.
“Eventually, that is the message of the Swachch Bharat mission, instead of throwing your items, you can just turn it into something beautiful and reusable,” the officer explained.
A display will also be set up where students may examine how other students vary from them. This will boost their creativity, long-term habits, and teamwork.
