Dar inaugurates ‘Waste to Wealth’ exhibition at Baltal

Baltal, July 15: In a major step towards promoting sustainable sanitation during the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra (SANJY-2025), Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and  Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited the Baltal base camp and inaugurated the ‘Waste to Wealth’ Exhibition organized by the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, J&K.In a statement issued here, the exhibition showcased innovative models of solid waste management, including displays of recycled materials, upcycled products and circular economy solutions. Local entrepreneurs from across Kashmir also participated, highlighting eco-friendly alternatives and grassroots innovation in sustainable waste practices.A detailed presentation was given to the Minister by the officials of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, outlining the comprehensive waste management strategy for the Yatra. The presentation focused on segregation at source, scientific disposal methods, composting, plastic waste minimization and integration of technology for real-time monitoring and supervision. The Minister was briefed on deployment of machinery, logistics planning, manpower mobilization and community outreach under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) framework.The Minister also flagged off a Swachhta Rally, themed “Swachh Yatra, Surakshit Yatra”, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from sanitation workers, volunteers and departmental officials. The rally reinforced the collective responsibility of ensuring hygiene and cleanliness along the entire pilgrimage route.During his visit, the Minister interacted with the sanitation warriors, acknowledging their tireless efforts in maintaining hygiene amid challenging terrain and weather conditions. He also felicitated Langarwalas and sanitation staff for their commendable services in upholding cleanliness and supporting the smooth conduct of the Yatra.“Cleanliness is not just a service, it is ‘seva’. The inauguration of the ‘Waste to Wealth’ Exhibition, along with today’s detailed review of waste management systems, reaffirms our commitment to a dignified, hygienic and environmentally conscious pilgrimage,” said the Minister.The Minister was accompanied by Anoo Malhotra Director General, Rural Sanitation; Shabir Hussain Bhat ,Director RDD Kashmir;  Virender Kumar Manyal, Director  Camp Baltal; senior officers of District Ganderbal and others  concerned officials.He also reviewed on-ground sanitation infrastructure and ongoing IEC (Information, Education & Communication) campaigns being conducted to raise awareness among the pilgrims about waste segregation, reduction of single-use plastics and promotion of responsible pilgrimage practices.Commending the Department’s efforts for adopting scientific waste processing technologies and deploying modern sanitation machinery, the Minister emphasized the importance of institutionalizing sustainable systems to ensure a clean, resilient, and eco-friendly Yatra corridor in the years to come.