Indore and Surat wins Cleanest Cities award - Swachh Survekshan 2023

Dust off your walking shoes and pack your eco-friendly bags, because we're going on a journey with a difference! Today, we celebrate a major milestone in India's quest for a cleaner and healthier future: the announcement of the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023!

Read more: 15 Must-See Places in Indore That Will Steal Your Heart

Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 have been announced, and two vibrant cities, Indore and Surat, have emerged as the joint winners of the Cleanest City title. With this double victory Indore has extended its reign as the country's sanitation champion for the seventh consecutive year and Surat etching its name on the coveted honor for the first time.

Swachh Survekshan Awards

^{Indore, Surat Img: Indore Municipal Corporation}

Over the past eight years, the Swachh Survekshan Awards has transformed into the world's largest cleanliness evaluation, assessing over 4,500 cities and 46 crucial indicators.

And it's not just the big cities shining! In the under-1 lakh population category, Saswad, Patan, and Lonavala emerged victorious, showcasing the mission's reach beyond the metropolises. Time to add these hidden gems to your travel list!

Read more: Top 20 Things to Do in Lonavala, Mumbai in 2023

The Ceremony

^{Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 in New Delhi on January 11, 2024 Img: ANI}

President Draupadi Murmu presided over the ceremony, handing out awards and celebrating the fierce competition that drives continuous improvement under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

Read more: 15 Places and Attractions to visit in Surat

Beyond the top, other noteworthy achievements include:

• Saswad, Maharashtra, claiming the top spot for cleanest city in the under-1 lakh population category.

• Varanasi and Prayagraj being recognized as the cleanest Ganga Towns.

• Mhow Cantonment Board in Madhya Pradesh emerging as the cleanest cantonment town.

• Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh bagging the top three awards for best performing states.

Looking Ahead

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri unveiled the theme for the 2024 survey - "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle". This renewed focus on sustainable waste management underscores the mission's commitment to long-term environmental solutions.

Yes, let's celebrate Indore, Surat, and all the winners! But let's also remember, the journey for a clean India is just beginning and every person has a role to play!

So, pack your bags, travelers, and explore India with a new lens. See beyond the monuments and markets; experience the clean streets, responsible citizens, and the collective effort towards a healthier future. Let's travel with purpose, and together, make India the cleanest destination on Earth!

P.S. Don't forget to check out our city guides for Indore and Surat – discover hidden gems, must-see attractions, and experience the clean charm of these winning cities!