Agricultural research institutions report disposal of over 13,000 physical and electronic files, generation of ₹14 lakh in scrap revenue and release of more than 4,000 sq. ft. of office space

New Delhi, November 6, 2026: The Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have completed Special Campaign 6.0, undertaking cleanliness, waste management and office-space improvement activities across their establishments throughout the country.

As part of the nationwide campaign, approximately 8,000 sites across DARE–ICAR institutions and offices were cleaned. The initiative also resulted in the disposal of more than 13,000 physical and electronic files, generation of over ₹14 lakh in revenue through scrap disposal and the freeing up of more than 4,000 square feet of space.

The campaign focused on improving workplace cleanliness, strengthening institutional record management and promoting environmentally responsible practices across agricultural research establishments.

Focus on Waste Management, Digitisation and Campus Cleanliness

Special Campaign 6.0 covered a range of activities, including physical and electronic record management, digitisation, plantation drives, electronic waste disposal, scrap management and improvement of office infrastructure.

Cleanliness drives were conducted across office premises, agricultural research campuses, farms, fields and surrounding roads. Particular attention was given to segregating metal and plastic waste from general waste to encourage more responsible disposal practices.

DARE–ICAR institutions also organised awareness programmes to sensitise employees and campus communities about cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

Several campuses conducted free medical camps, while Safai Mitras were felicitated in recognition of their contribution to maintaining clean and hygienic institutional environments.

Officials and employees across different administrative levels participated in the activities, with the campaign reporting achievements beyond its predetermined targets.

Key Highlights of Special Campaign 6.0

• 8,000 sites cleaned: Cleanliness activities conducted across DARE–ICAR establishments nationwide.
• 13,000-plus files weeded out: Physical and electronic records reviewed and disposed of.
• ₹14 lakh-plus revenue generated: Earnings through scrap disposal activities.
• 4,000-plus sq. ft. space freed: Office-space optimisation through record clearance and waste removal.
• E-waste management: Greater emphasis on responsible electronic waste disposal.
• Waste segregation: Separation of metal and plastic waste from general waste.
• Campus initiatives: Plantation drives, awareness camps and free medical camps conducted.
• Safai Mitra recognition: Sanitation workers felicitated for their contributions to cleanliness.

Impact on Hospitality, Foodservice and Travel & Tourism

1. Strengthening institutional cleanliness standards

The campaign highlights the importance of systematic cleanliness, waste segregation and space management across large institutional establishments. These practices are equally relevant to hotels, resorts, restaurants, convention centres and institutional kitchens, where hygiene and efficient waste management are essential operational priorities.

2. Opportunities for sustainable food waste management

The emphasis on waste segregation and environmentally responsible disposal reinforces the need for hospitality businesses to adopt structured waste management systems. Hotels and restaurants can apply similar practices to separate food waste, recyclable packaging, plastics and electronic waste.

3. Cleaner agricultural campuses and tourism destinations

Agricultural research institutions, farms and educational campuses can also contribute to rural and educational tourism. Maintaining clean campuses and surrounding infrastructure can improve the experience of visiting researchers, students, delegates and other travellers.

4. Scope for sustainable hospitality operations

The campaign’s focus on digitisation, efficient space utilisation and responsible resource management reflects practices that can help hospitality businesses improve operational efficiency while reducing unnecessary resource consumption.

5. Institutional events and business travel

DARE–ICAR operates a nationwide network of agricultural research and educational institutions. Improved campus infrastructure and cleanliness can support conferences, academic programmes, research visits and institutional events, generating associated accommodation, catering and transportation requirements.

Industry Takeaway

DARE–ICAR’s Special Campaign 6.0 demonstrates how institutional cleanliness, waste segregation, digitisation and space optimisation can be implemented across a large nationwide network.

For the hospitality industry, the campaign offers relevant operational lessons in maintaining hygienic environments, managing waste responsibly and making better use of available infrastructure. Its emphasis on environmental responsibility also aligns with the growing importance of sustainable practices across hotels, restaurants, foodservice operations and tourism establishments.