Retired DIG Honoured with Padma Shri for Inspiring Cleanliness Mission
At 87 years old, when many choose to slow down, Inderjit Singh Sidhu from Chandigarh has demonstrated extraordinary dedication by taking up the broom to clean his surroundings. The retired Deputy Inspector General of Punjab Police has been named a Padma Shri awardee for 2026, recognising a lifetime of service that extends far beyond his police career.
A Quiet Beginning That Captured National Attention
Sidhu, a 1964-batch IPS officer who retired in 1996, began his cleanliness mission in Chandigarh's Sector 49. He started sweeping littered streets near his home in the IAS–IPS Officers' Cooperative Society, initially as a personal act of civic duty. What began quietly soon gained national prominence after industrialist Anand Mahindra shared a video showcasing Sidhu's efforts, bringing widespread recognition to his work.
Daily Ritual of Cleaning and Commitment
With unwavering commitment to preserving Chandigarh's 'City Beautiful' identity, Sidhu leads by example through his daily routine. Every morning before dawn breaks, he sets out with a simple cycle cart as his only tool to clean the streets of his sector. Day after day, he collects litter from roads and public spaces, depositing it at designated disposal points. His rounds typically begin at 6 am, ensuring his area remains clean and serving as an inspiring reminder that civic responsibility doesn't end with retirement.
The Award Announcement and Family Reaction
Sidhu received a call from Delhi about the Padma Shri award at 8 am but chose not to immediately share the news with his family. It was only when his son-in-law, Pushpinder Singh, a retired ADC, heard about the honour from a friend and asked Sidhu directly that the retired DIG confirmed the recognition. This modest approach reflects Sidhu's character—focusing on service rather than accolades.
Philosophy Rooted in Childhood Teachings
In his response to the honour, Sidhu expressed gratitude to his friends and the President while sharing the philosophy that drives his actions. "In the NCC, there were several competitions of cleanliness, and I was a part of these," he recalled. "Since childhood, we were told by our teachers and professors that cleanliness is next to godliness, and till now, I maintain that belief. Children and youngsters need to be taught the value of being citizens who can take pride in keeping their neighbourhood, city and country clean."
He further emphasized, "All through my career in the police, I have done social service and continue to do so, and am very grateful that my work has been recognised and appreciated."
Continuing the Mission in Mohali
Now residing in Phase 9, Mohali, with his daughter and son-in-law, Sidhu continues his cleaning crusade with remarkable consistency. He sets out to clean the area every morning and evening, transforming his personal belief into tangible action. His dedication represents not just routine maintenance but an act of courage and commitment that challenges societal norms about age and responsibility.
This Padma Shri recognition highlights how individual initiative can create meaningful change, inspiring others to take ownership of their communities. Sidhu's story serves as a powerful testament to the impact one person can have through persistent, humble service to society.
