Gorakhpur, Jan 13 (Reporter) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday emphasised the significance of cleanliness in a bid to beautify the entire Uttar Pradesh before the consecration of Lord Ram in Ayodhya on January 22. While addressing the village heads and panchayat representatives via video conferencing, the CM referred to cleanliness as a divine endeavour and stressed the importance of sending a positive message nationwide by actively participating in the special cleanliness campaign. He declared January 22 as a national festival, marking the celebration of Lord Ram taking his seat in the new, grand and divine temple after a 500-year wait. Emphasising that this celebration extends beyond Ayodhya, he urged every village, house and individual to join the unprecedented festivities. Yogi also urged people to celebrate Deepotsav in every home and temple on Shri Ramotsav, recommending the recitation of Ramnam Sankirtan in homes, temples and public spaces. He also suggested celebrating Deepotsav at Amrit Sarovars (ponds) in the village, highlighting the potential role of chiefs and all rural public representatives in contributing to the grand occasion. To kick start the Shri Ram Lalla festival with enthusiasm, he has announced a special cleanliness campaign on January 14. Encouraging the participation of every town, village, family and individual, he stressed the importance of cleaning and beautifully decorating temples. Referring to the tragic impact of diseases like encephalitis, he highlighted the government's commitment to cleanliness and awareness as crucial measures in disease control. "We have to stop using single-use plastic, designating the special cleanliness on January 14 as a platform for achieving this goal," he said. He urged village heads to conscientiously enlighten residents about the hazards of single-use plastic, fostering awareness and caution. He also encouraged all villages to engage in a healthy competition for cleanliness, emphasising that a cleaner environment enhances the village's aesthetic appeal, augments its reputation and garners appreciation. Proposing a cleanliness competition on January 14, he recommended overseeing the Panchayati Raj Department to ensure effective monitoring. The CM appealed to all village heads to focus on solid and liquid waste management. Emphasising on setting up of manure pits as a crucial step, he highlighted their significant contribution to waste management in Panchayats. He said, "Implementing a waste management system in Panchayats is not only aimed at protecting the environment but also at supplying farmers with valuable compost." Encouraging development of Amrit Sarovars, Yogi said that it serves as a model for sustainable practices, contributing to the state's overall cleanliness and environmental well-being. Extending his best wishes to people for Makar Sankranti and the upcoming festivals, the CM urged them to actively participate in the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram, ensuring an unprecedented celebration extending to the village level...////...