USTM partners with UP Govt. to drive Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0 forward

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 8, 2025

Guwahati, Feb 8: The Uttar Pradesh government has invited the University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) to play a pivotal role in advancing the Swachh Bharat Mission—Urban 2.0. As a recognized Swachhta Knowledge Partner (SKP) under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for 2024, USTM is set to contribute significantly to urban sanitation and waste management efforts across India.

Representing USTM at a high-level meeting in Lucknow on January 23, 2025, Dr. Nibedita Paul, Project Director, SKP, SBM (U) 2.0, engaged in strategic discussions with key officials, including Mr. Anuj Kumar Jha (IAS), State Mission Director, SBM UP. The meeting focused on strengthening the capacity of urban local bodies (ULBs) in Uttar Pradesh to accelerate progress toward Swachh Bharat goals.

Dr. Paul presented USTM’s strategic roadmap, highlighting critical challenges and innovative solutions to enhance waste management and sanitation practices. Recognizing the university’s valuable contributions, the Uttar Pradesh Urban Development Department has proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with USTM, further solidifying their collaboration.

Eight SKPs across India also participated in the meeting, each presenting proposals aimed at equipping ULBs with the necessary tools and strategies for effective sanitation initiative implementation. Senior officials, including the Additional Director, Deputy Director, Assistant Director (Accounts), and Finance & Accounts Officer, evaluated the presentations.

As a next step, the Uttar Pradesh Government has requested detailed proposals covering 12 key subject areas, marking the beginning of a robust partnership for a cleaner and more sustainable urban landscape. USTM extends its gratitude to the UP government for this opportunity to contribute to the nation’s urban development and sanitation goals.