‘Swachhta’ Ranking 2017

Cleanliness is a part of life as it leads to a healthy and disease-free life. The initiative of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) to conduct a study on cleanliness in higher education institutions (HEIs) is a commendable step. Through a study of this nature, educational institutions faring well in cleanliness parameters will be encouraged to maintain their efforts, while those scoring poorly will be made aware of the necessity to improve their cleanliness measures. Such a study will also generate awareness among students on the issue.

On the basis of this study, the MHRD has graded HEIs on cleanliness in its “Swachhta” Rankings list 2017. It is disheartening to note that no government institute featured within the top 50. In India it is known that government sectors are unfortunately characterised by less accountability, less responsibility, a “don’t care” attitude, etc. The MHRD surveyed about 3,500 HEIs based on several para­meters such as student–toilet ratio, kitchen hygiene, availability of running water, campus green cover, garbage disposal, etc. Based on these, 174 institutions were shortlisted and subsequently the officials from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) visited the premises, and the top 25 institutions were chosen.