A Historic Town with a Modern Challenge
Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, the town of Kelwara in Rajasthan faced a daunting challenge just five years ago. Rainwater would collect up to the knees on its sloping roads, and garbage piled up on streets and drains with no proper waste management system in place. But where many saw a problem, the Kelwara Vikas Samiti saw an opportunity for change.

A Community-Led Transformation
In 2019, Kelwara Vikas Samiti, with support from Seva Mandir, took the reins to lead the town towards a cleaner, healthier future. The committee, alongside local residents, shopkeepers, and hotels, embarked on a mission to implement effective waste management. Through countless meetings, personal conversations, and children's programs, the community was encouraged to separate wet and dry waste and dispose of it responsibly. Their tireless efforts bore fruit as the entire three-kilometer market area adopted waste segregation, a practice that continues today.

The Heart of Change: Arogya Mitras
A significant aspect of Kelwara's success was the inclusion of sanitation workers, known as Arogya Mitras, as valued members of the committee. Their insights were instrumental in designing an efficient waste management system. This collaborative effort not only improved cleanliness but also fostered social harmony within the community.

Building a Sustainable Future
Without land for a resource recovery center, the committee approached the village panchayat and secured one bigha of land. Today, this center is a hub where waste is meticulously sorted and sold, generating income that covers operational costs like salaries and fuel. Traders and cart owners contribute monthly fees, reinforcing a sense of ownership and responsibility towards waste management.

An Inspiration Beyond Borders
Seven Arogya Mitras now clean Kelwara's roads and drains daily, and since 2023, even neighboring villages have joined the initiative. Monthly meetings ensure continuous improvement, making Kelwara a beacon of grassroots leadership. Government officials, panchayats, and organizations from across India visit Kelwara to learn from its model.

Empowering Change
Kelwara's journey from clutter to cleanliness is a testament to the power of community-driven action. The Kelwara Vikas Samiti's relentless efforts have not only transformed their town but have also set an inspiring example for villages and towns across Rajasthan and beyond. In 2024, Umed Mal Lodha Environment Award recognizes their incredible work which is the proof that local action can spark big change for our planet.