New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal led a tree plantation drive at the India International Arbitration Centre (IIAC), Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, on October 1, 2026.
The programme was organised by the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice, as part of Special Campaign 6 and Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2026. The plantation drive was held under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.
Senior officials from the Department of Legal Affairs and IIAC participated in the event and planted saplings on the IIAC campus.
Senior Officials Participate in Plantation Drive
Dr Rajiv Mani, Secretary, Legislative Department and Department of Legal Affairs and Chairperson of IIAC, participated in the programme along with senior officers and officials from the Department and IIAC.
Arjun Ram Meghwal, Dr Rajiv Mani and other senior officials planted saplings on the IIAC campus as part of the environmental initiative.
The programme highlighted the importance of combining cleanliness initiatives with environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
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Arjun Ram Meghwal Links Cleanliness With Clean Mind
Addressing the gathering, Arjun Ram Meghwal said that true cleanliness begins with “Mann ki Swachhta”, or cleanliness of the mind.
He emphasised that cleanliness should not be limited to maintaining streets and public spaces. According to the Minister, it should also involve:
- Clean thoughts and behaviour
- A sense of duty towards society
- Discipline and responsibility
- Collective participation in public initiatives
He described Swachhata Hi Seva as a people’s movement in which every individual has a role to play.
Minister Recalls Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Experience
The Minister also recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s stay in Champaran in 1917, highlighting his efforts towards sanitation and hygiene.
According to Meghwal, Gandhi’s work in Champaran became part of a broader mass movement while also contributing to efforts to address the grievances of indigo farmers.
He said the experience continues to offer a relevant lesson that cleanliness is a mission based on empathy and shared responsibility, rather than merely a campaign.
IIAC Should Reflect Values of Transparency and Service
Meghwal expressed confidence that IIAC would develop into a global, efficient and credible centre for arbitration.
He said the institution should reflect the values of transparency, discipline and service associated with the Swachhata Hi Seva initiative.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of collective efforts by all stakeholders in strengthening the institution.
Dr Rajiv Mani Highlights Two Dimensions of Cleanliness
Dr Rajiv Mani said cleanliness has two dimensions — cleanliness of surroundings and cleanliness of the mind — and that one remains incomplete without the other.
He appreciated the efforts of IIAC and stressed that institutions have a responsibility to adopt sustainable practices and contribute meaningfully to the objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Dr Mani also reaffirmed IIAC’s commitment to establishing itself as a global, efficient and credible institution and contributing to India’s emergence as a preferred seat for international arbitration.
IIAC Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainability
Navin Kumar Singh, CEO, IIAC, thanked the Minister, Secretary and other dignitaries for participating in the programme.
He reaffirmed IIAC’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
The programme concluded with a pledge to continue cleanliness initiatives and promote a greener and more sustainable environment.
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