New Delhi, Oct 02: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday flagged off the “Recycling on Wheels Smart-ER” project at Anusandhan Bhawan, New Delhi to celebrate the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign, celebrated from September 15 to October 02 this year.
Dr Jitendra emphasised that the “Recycling on Wheels Smart-ER” aligns perfectly with the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign’s objective of fostering a cleaner India. He explained that the project not only enhances transportation efficiency and cost reduction but also efficiently extracts precious metals from shredded e-waste in its later phase, making a significant contribution to the circular economy, thus aligning with the Swachh Bharat mission.
The union minister highlighted the significance of Swachh Bharat mission and its institutionalization as a way of life. He mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi made cleanliness a part of life, and Mahatma Gandhi gave us the virtue of Swacchata. He added that the Swachhata campaign is not restricted to 2nd October but has assumed a new dimension of continuity.
Dr Singh said that the “Recycling on Wheels Smart-ER” project recognizes SafaiMitra’s crucial role in cleanliness, preserving both the environment and their health through responsible e-waste disposal. He praised the project for offering skill development, aligning with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and promoting sustainability, contributing to the motto of Training, Transport, and Technology, empowering the informal sector with skills, efficient transportation, and technology for a better future.
The minister also acknowledged the strategic partnership between the Technology Development Board (TDB) and M/s Eco Recycling Limited, a Mumbai-based public limited company, in response to Prime Minister Modi’s call for heightened awareness regarding proper e-waste disposal. This groundbreaking e-waste management project has received a generous financial support of Rs 6.00 crore from TDB.