Director urges public support for 'dean' RIMS
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 23 2025: Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, director Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma has called for public support in keeping the hospital clean.

He made the appeal at the inaugural function of a three-day Swachhta Students' Camp organised as part of the institute's continued commitment to the Swachh Bharat Mission, on Thursday.

The camp organised by Swachhta Action Plan (SAP) 2024-25 Committee, aims to engage students in hands-on activities promoting cleanliness, sustainability, and environmental awareness.

Director urges public support for 'dean' RIMS

The inaugural programme was also attended by RIMS medical superintendent Prof N Sanjib Singh, and SAP 2024-25 nodal officer Prof Y Govindaraj Singh, as well as deputy director (administration), principals of the College of Nursing and Dental College, HoDs, nursing officials, and other staff.

Addressing the gathering, Prof Sunil emphasised the importance of cleanliness and hygiene, highlighting the role of students in fostering a sustainable future.

He stressed the need to instil values of cleanliness and healthy habits among young minds to contribute to combating climate change and building a cleaner society.

The director elaborated on RIMS' efforts under the Swachhta Action Plan, including measures to make the campus plastic-free zone.

He pointed out that the institute had banned the use of one litre and half-litre plastic-packaged water bottles from October 2, 2023."While this initiative has faced challenges, such as patient parties continuing to bring in banned bottles resulting in confrontation with security sfaff, efforts are being made to raise awareness and enforce the policy", he said.

An RO plant has already been installed in front of the OPD, with plans to set up additional units inside the campus, he said and urged patient parties to switch to five-litre water bottles or non-plastic containers of smaller capacities.

The director also urged the Students participating in the camp to pledge against using plastic bottles, develop proper waste disposal habits, and adopt environmentally friendly practices, underscoring the role of young students in shaping a cleaner and healthier society.

The three-day camp will include a variety of activities such as cleanliness drives within and around the RIMS campus, workshops and awareness programmes on waste management and water conservation, and creative competitions like poster-making and essay-writing.

Participants will also engage with local communities to spread awareness about cleanliness and hygiene.