Gram Panchayat Bharatpur in Tappal block of Aligarh has become the districts first ODF plus model village, making it a significant achievement in the state. Village head Neelam Devi will be honoured under the Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman during the International Womens Day week celebrations organised by the Union Jal Shakti Ministry. Three women leaders in the state have been selected for this honour, including Pradhan Neelam Devi of Bharatpur in Tappal block.Honouring Village Head for SwachhataThe Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman recognises individuals and organisations with exemplary dedication and innovation in water conservation, sanitation, and hygiene. Neelam Devi will receive the award at a function held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on March 4. It is an enormous recognition for the district, as the female lead is getting the opportunity to be honoured on such a big platform.Impressive Progress in SwachhataThe village has made impressive progress towards achieving ODF-plus status, which involves eliminating open defecation and maintaining sanitation and hygiene standards in public places. The villagers have been using toilets for over four years, and the panchayat has been taking several initiatives to maintain the cleanliness of the village. The villagers are also trained to handle the waste efficiently and effectively manage liquid and solid waste.Recognition for Women LeadersThe Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman aims to recognise the contribution of women leaders in water conservation and sanitation. It is an excellent initiative to encourage and empower women in rural areas who play a crucial role in implementing government schemes and programs. The selection of three women leaders from the state for this honour shows the remarkable progress made by women in leadership roles in rural areas.ConclusionThe recognition of Gram Panchayat Bharatpur in Tappal block of Aligarh as the districts first ODF plus model village and the honouring of Village Head Neelam Devi under the Swachh Sujal Shakti Samman highlights the impressive progress made by the village towards achieving Swachh Bharat Abhiyans goals. It is also a significant recognition of women leaders role in promoting cleanliness and sanitation in rural areas.
