Ramban, October 3, 2025 – In a heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 156th birth anniversary, the 84th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) rolled up their sleeves for a spirited cleanliness drive along the pristine banks of the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district. Timed to coincide with Gandhi Jayanti and the International Day of Non-Violence, the initiative under the Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 campaign underscored the force’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, blending duty with devotion to preserve the river’s natural splendor.Led by Commandant N. Ranbir Singh, alongside Second-in-Command Vikram Singh and Assistant Commandant Roop Ram Meena, over 50 dedicated CRPF personnel, joined by local Safai Mitras, descended upon the riverbanks. Armed with gloves, bags, and unyielding resolve, they meticulously removed heaps of garbage, plastic waste, and debris that threatened the Chenab’s flowing beauty – a vital lifeline for the region’s ecology and communities. The drive extended to the District Hospital Ramban, where similar efforts ensured hygienic surroundings, reflecting Gandhi’s timeless mantra of cleanliness as a form of service.
Echoing Bapu’s Call: Service Through Sustainability
Commandant N. Ranbir Singh, speaking to the media amid the rhythmic rush of the river, encapsulated the spirit of the day: “Today, on Gandhi Jayanti, our team came here and cleaned up all the garbage and plastic. Our aim is to maintain the cleanliness and conservation of the river and its water. We have launched this drive for this purpose.” His words resonated as a clarion call, honoring Gandhi’s vision of a Swachh Bharat where every citizen contributes to a healthier planet.This eco-patrol aligns seamlessly with the nationwide Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, amplifying the CRPF’s role beyond security to community upliftment. Since its deployment in Jammu and Kashmir in 2010, the 84th Battalion – headquartered at Chatha, Jammu, with companies stationed along the strategic NH-44 – has championed such civic actions, fostering harmony between humans and nature. Certificates and gifts were distributed to the Safai Mitras and personnel, recognizing their pivotal role in this green guardianship.As the sun dipped behind Ramban’s rugged hills, the Chenab gleamed a little brighter, symbolizing hope. In a region where rivers carve stories of resilience, this drive not only cleansed the waters but also purified spirits, proving that true non-violence begins with nurturing our shared earth. The CRPF vows to sustain these efforts, inviting locals to join future endeavors for a verdant, vibrant Jammu and Kashmir.
