Itanagar: Silluk, a small hamlet in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district, has earned national recognition after being featured in an NCERT textbook for its remarkable efforts in environmental cleanliness.
The village has been featured in the Class III Environmental Studies textbook published by NCERT.
Chapter 12, titled “Taking Charge of Waste”, highlights the village’s exemplary efforts in waste management and environmental cleanliness.
The inclusion recognises Silluk’s transformation into a zero-waste locality and its consistent performance in maintaining high sanitation standards.
The village has previously been named the cleanest village in East Siang on three occasions and received the Naturenomics Award from the Balipara Foundation in 2023.
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu took to X to congratulate the people of Silluk on this national recognition.
“Silluk in East Siang district is now a national model for zero-waste living and grassroots cleanliness. From scattered waste to spotless streets and green lanes, the people of Siluk have shown what true community spirit looks like! Now, students across India will learn from Siluk’s journey. A powerful message: change begins at home,” Khandu wrote.
Celebrating the moment, Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng expressed pride and joy on social media: “Heartiest congratulations to Silluk village and the people of Silluk! It’s a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh. Students across the country will now learn about the values, efforts, and success of our village.”
Tayeng lauded the achievement, crediting the efforts of various individuals and groups, including the Swachh Silluk Abhiyan led by its chairman Kepang Nong Borang, and former East Siang DC Kini Singh.
The recognition in the NCERT book marks a new milestone, putting Silluk on the national map as a model for rural cleanliness and sustainable living.
One of the most remarkable features of Silluk’s initiative is the high level of community participation. Villagers are actively engaged in composting organic waste, recycling usable materials, and reducing overall waste generation.
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Kepang Nong Borang stated, “We are thrilled and honored. This is a testament to the power of collective action and the village’s commitment to environmental protection.”
