Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award after securing third place in the Clean and Green Panchayat category at the national level. The achievement has brought recognition to Mandi district and Himachal Pradesh for its outstanding work in environmental conservation and rural development.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj presented the award during a ceremony in New Delhi. District Panchayat Officer Anchit Dogra and Panchayat Secretary Rajat Sharma received the honor on behalf of the panchayat.
Moreover, the panchayat received a cash incentive of ₹25 lakh for its exceptional performance.
Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award for Sustainable Development
The reason Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award lies in its strong focus on cleanliness, environmental protection, and community participation.
Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan congratulated officials, employees, elected representatives, and local residents for this remarkable achievement. He explained that the Ministry of Panchayati Raj evaluates panchayats on nine major development indicators, and Lohardi excelled in the Clean and Green Panchayat category.
As a result, the village earned a place among the top-performing panchayats in India.
Innovative Waste Management System Recognized
A key factor behind why Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award is its effective waste management strategy.
The panchayat appointed a dedicated worker to collect plastic waste from different areas. Officials then ensure proper disposal of the collected material.
In addition, the panchayat established a special shed to segregate plastic waste before disposal. These initiatives have improved sanitation and reduced environmental pollution.
Therefore, Lohardi has emerged as a model village for waste management practices.
Plantation Drives and Green Initiatives Boost Success
The achievement also reflects the panchayat’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Large-scale plantation drives have taken place throughout the village, and authorities continue to encourage residents to plant more trees.
Furthermore, the panchayat has developed solar-powered irrigation systems, promoted clean fuel usage, improved access to safe drinking water, and strengthened sanitation facilities.
The construction of an Amrit Sarovar has also enhanced water conservation efforts. Consequently, these projects significantly contributed to the reason Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award.
Community Participation Leads the Way
One of the strongest reasons Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award is the active involvement of local residents.
Children, senior citizens, women’s groups, youth clubs, and self-help groups worked together to support cleanliness and environmental campaigns.
Moreover, members of the Dhar, Lohardi, and Banaun Mahila Mandals visited homes to educate residents about proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.
As a result, awareness and participation increased across the entire panchayat.
Young Panchayat Achieves National Recognition
Located in Balh Development Block of Mandi district, Lohardi Panchayat was formed in 2021 after separating from Gram Panchayat Halyatar.
Despite being a relatively new panchayat, it has achieved remarkable success through innovative planning and strong community engagement. The panchayat serves nearly 1,500 residents across five wards.
This accomplishment demonstrates how dedicated leadership and public participation can drive sustainable rural development.
Inspiring Neighboring Panchayats
Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan stated that Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award not only for its own achievements but also for inspiring neighboring panchayats.
Its efforts in waste management, water conservation, plantation drives, and community participation have encouraged other villages to adopt similar practices.
Therefore, Lohardi’s success story serves as an example for rural communities across the country.
Conclusion
Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award through its commitment to cleanliness, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. By securing third place nationally and earning a ₹25 lakh incentive, the panchayat has established itself as a model for rural governance.
Its achievement highlights the importance of collective action, responsible environmental practices, and community-led development.
Key Points of the News
- Lohardi Panchayat Wins National Award in the Clean and Green Panchayat category.
- The panchayat secured third place at the national level and received ₹25 lakh.
- Effective waste management and plastic disposal systems contributed to the achievement.
- Plantation drives, solar irrigation, and water conservation strengthened sustainability efforts.
- Strong community participation played a major role in the panchayat’s success.
