HM launches PRAGATI-50 initiative to establish cleaning benchmark for Indian cities

The home ministry has selected 50 model cities across 24 states under the PRAGATI-50 initiative, intended to set a higher benchmark for cleanliness in the country.The cities will pursue targeted, KPI-based action and will be subject to intensive, technology-enabled monitoring within the framework of Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0.According to union minister Manohar Lal, these cities will emerge as clean role model cities for the rest of the country, by going beyond their routine sanitation work.“We have ensured the inclusion of major cities, cities of cultural importance, high tourism destinations and economic centres”, Manohar Lal said.“The initiative aims to drive visible improvements in urban cleanliness, solid waste management, used water management, sanitation, and citizen participation through a structured framework of monitoring and review within a defined timeframe”, he…