Science Ministries gear up for nationwide coastal cleanliness campaign 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' from 10 to 19 September 2026; Dr. Jitendra Singh calls for greater synergy to translate scientific initiatives into people's movement

Why in news

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh chaired a high-level meeting of Science Ministries and Departments to strengthen coordination among scientific institutions and review preparations for the upcoming 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' nationwide coastal cleanliness campaign.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Environment & Ecology, Science & Technology · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh chaired a high-level review meeting of Secretaries and senior officials of Science Ministries and Departments.
2. The meeting aimed to strengthen coordination across national scientific institutions to accelerate delivery of national priorities.
3. Preparations are underway for the 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' nationwide coastal cleanliness campaign.
4. The campaign is scheduled from 10 to 19 September 2026.
5. The Minister stressed the need for scientific institutions to work in close partnership, combining technological innovation, public participation, and inter-departmental collaboration.
6. The meeting was held at the CSIR-Science Centre, New Delhi.
7. Attendees included Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Prof. Umesh V. Waghmare, and Secretary, Department of Biotech.

Prelims pointers

• 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' is a nationwide coastal cleanliness campaign.
• The campaign is being prepared by Science Ministries and Departments.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh is the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences.
• The campaign emphasizes technological innovation, public participation, and inter-departmental collaboration.
• The meeting was held at the CSIR-Science Centre, New Delhi.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of inter-ministerial coordination and public participation in translating scientific initiatives into a people's movement for national priorities, with reference to the 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' campaign.

Static linkage

This initiative links to broader government efforts towards environmental conservation, particularly coastal ecosystems, and the emphasis on 'whole of government' approach through inter-ministerial coordination. It also highlights the role of scientific institutions in contributing to national campaigns and fostering scientific temper among the public.

Significance

The emphasis on seamless coordination among Science Ministries and Departments is crucial for optimizing resource utilization and accelerating the achievement of national priorities. Leveraging technological innovation, public participation, and inter-departmental collaboration, as highlighted for the 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar' campaign, can enhance the effectiveness and reach of environmental initiatives. This approach can translate scientific advancements into tangible societal benefits and foster a people's movement for sustainable development.

Way forward

Not specified in source