Port Blair: In a major step towards building a cleaner and environmentally sustainable Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the Directorate of Rural Development, Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) has launched a phased capacity-building programme to train elected Panchayati Raj representatives on the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026.
Organised under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), the initiative seeks to equip grassroots representatives with the knowledge and skills required to effectively implement scientific solid waste management practices across the Union Territory.
The first phase of the programme commenced yesterday with training sessions held in Prothrapur, Ferrargunj and Rangat Blocks, where elected PRI representatives participated enthusiastically.
During the sessions, domain experts engaged under RGSA explained the key provisions of the SWM Rules, 2026, the statutory responsibilities of Gram Panchayats, compliance requirements and practical strategies for effective implementation. The participants were sensitised to their crucial role in promoting scientific segregation, collection, processing and safe disposal of solid waste while encouraging community participation in environmental conservation.
The programme also featured interactive discussions, allowing participants to highlight local challenges, exchange experiences and identify practical solutions and best practices for implementing the new waste management framework in their respective Gram Panchayats.
The Directorate of RD, PRI & ULBs has planned to extend the training programme to all remaining blocks of the Union Territory in a phased manner, ensuring that every elected PRI representative is adequately prepared to spearhead scientific waste management initiatives at the grassroots.
The initiative underscores the Andaman & Nicobar Administration’s commitment to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions, enhancing local governance and fostering a cleaner, greener and more sustainable island ecosystem.
