The National Zoological Park in New Delhi has launched Swachhata Pakhwada 2026, a 15-day campaign aimed at promoting environmental awareness, cleanliness, and sustainable lifestyles ahead of World Environment Day on June 5.

The initiative, running from June 1 to June 15, aligns with the Government of India's Swachh Bharat Mission and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). The programme began with a mass cleanliness pledge and a student painting competition focused on pollution in protected areas. According to the zoo administration, 44 students from 23 schools participated.

Focus On Conservation And Public Awareness

The campaign includes street plays, guided zoo visits, environmental quizzes, essay competitions, and awareness sessions on butterflies, moths, and fireflies. Organizers say the activities are designed to connect visitors with biodiversity conservation and responsible environmental practices.

Special programmes will also encourage waste reduction, sanitation awareness, and community participation through plogging activities and cleanliness drives across the zoo campus.

World Environment Day Activities Planned

As part of World Environment Day celebrations, the zoo will plant 100 trees under the nationwide "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign and conduct cleaning drives around ponds and wetlands. These efforts aim to improve ecosystem health while promoting habitat conservation.

Officials said the initiative highlights the connection between cleanliness, biodiversity protection, and sustainable living. By engaging students, visitors, and staff, the National Zoological Park seeks to encourage long-term behavioural change and greater public participation in environmental stewardship.