| Staff Reporter |
Itanagar, Jul 27: In a moment of pride for Arunachal Pradesh, Roing town in Lower Dibang Valley district has found national recognition for its grassroots civic efforts in the 124th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio address, broadcast nationwide on Sunday.
Highlighting the ‘Green Roing’ campaign, PM Modi lauded the town’s unique, citizen-driven initiatives to maintain cleanliness and promote sustainable urban living. The campaign, spearheaded by local residents and volunteers, has transformed Roing into a model of community-led urban hygiene.
The Prime Minister, in his address, emphasized Roing as a shining example of community-driven change, where waste management was once a significant health concern. He lauded the local residents for launching the ‘Green Roing Initiative’, which not only tackled waste effectively but also led to the creation of an entire park using recycled waste.
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s mention, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said, “It’s always heartening when quiet, local efforts catch the attention of the nation… Green Roing isn’t just a campaign. It’s a movement.”
Khandu also applauded the role of the citizens in driving the initiative forward and setting an example for the rest of the country. “When such efforts are acknowledged from the highest office in the land, it reminds us that real change always begins at the grassroots,” he added.
The Arunachal Pradesh unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also expressed deep appreciation to the Prime Minister for spotlighting the transformative grassroots work in Roing. “This national recognition is a proud moment not just for Roing but for the entire state,” the party said in a statement.
The ‘Green Roing Initiative’, spearheaded by a group of environmentally conscious youth under the leadership of Ibi Mepo, and supported by DUDA Roing, the District Administration, and various NGOs, is dedicated to the daily cleanliness and beautification of Roing Township. The initiative is further strengthened by the strong support of local MLA Mutchu Mithi.
Among the highlights of the initiative is the ‘Waste to Wonder’ Butterfly Structure at the Forest Park—an artistic installation created from over 10,000 recycled plastic bottles. Conceptualized by former Deputy Commissioner Soumya Saurabh (IAS, 2014 batch) and crafted by Assistant Engineer (UD) Jimu Mele, the structure stands as a powerful symbol of sustainability. Additionally, innovative mesh dustbins made from waste materials were designed by AE (Hydro) Rupa Mimi to promote responsible waste disposal.
The state BJP extended special thanks to all contributors including citizens, NGOs, and local authorities for their collaborative role in making Roing a model of grassroots-driven transformation. “The leadership of MLA Mutchu Mithi has been instrumental in sustaining this campaign. His commitment to community development sets a benchmark for public representatives across the state,” the party noted.