JAMMU, Dec 4: The Directorate of Rural Sanitation of Jammu & Kashmir, in partnership with 92.7 Big FM, officially launched the highly anticipated Big FM Cricket League 2024 on Wednesday at the Jammu Sports Club, Tawa. This event aims to promote sustainable sanitation and enhance community participation, and it was inaugurated with great enthusiasm by Anoo Malhotra, the Director General of Rural Sanitation, J&K.
The festivities began with a Swachhata Pledge, where players, officials, and attendees collectively pledged their commitment to a cleaner, greener Jammu and Kashmir. During the occasion, the DG highlighted the significance of sports in bringing communities together and raising awareness on vital issues such as sanitation.
In a noteworthy announcement, RJ Juhie from 92.7 Big FM was appointed as the Swachhata Ambassador for the SBM-G campaign in J&K. She will collaborate with the Directorate of Rural Sanitation to enhance messages regarding cleanliness, hygiene, and sustainable practices through her popular radio show, using her influence to encourage widespread participation.
The cricket league is set to draw large audiences and serve as an innovative platform to engage citizens, particularly the youth, in the sanitation initiative. The collaboration between the Directorate of Rural Sanitation and 92.7 Big FM highlighted the importance of partnerships in tackling urgent social and environmental issues.
The opening match featured the Swachhta Strikers competing against the Jal Shakti Warriors.
The DG expressed appreciation to all stakeholders, including participants, spectators, and media partners, for their invaluable support in advancing the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen. The event will continue throughout the coming days, with interactive activities and awareness campaigns planned alongside the matches.
Focusing on the themes of cleanliness and sustainability, booths displaying NRLM products, IPCA eco-friendly innovations crafted from recycled plastic, and an Awareness Counter by the Directorate of Rural Sanitation were strategically placed at the entry of the stadium. Attendees were informed about effective waste management techniques, the significance of source segregation, and the necessity for collective action in maintaining clean environments.
The occasion was honored by the presence of senior officials from the Department, including Director Rural Development Jammu Mohammad Mumtaz Ali, Director Panchayati Raj Sham Lal, Chief Executive Officer Himayat Rajnish Gupta, among other senior officials.
Recently, the DG unveiled the official trophy and jersey for the League, stating, “This event signifies the start of an exciting journey that celebrates sportsmanship while promoting sustainable sanitation and community engagement.” The trophy and jersey designs reflect themes of cleanliness, hygiene, and community welfare, perfectly aligning with the tournament’s broader mission of advocating for sustainable practices through sports.
The Big FM Cricket League 2024, which commenced on December 4, 2024, will conclude on December 13, represents a unique initiative that blends love for cricket with a crucial message on sanitation.
In her remarks, the DG of Rural Sanitation stated, “This cricket league transcends being merely a sporting event. It serves as a vital platform for engaging communities, especially youth, in the quest for a Swachh and Sustainable J&K. The trophy represents not just victory in cricket but also our collective triumph in promoting a cleaner environment.”
The partnership with 92.7 Big FM ensures broad outreach, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness about rural sanitation efforts through entertaining and impactful campaigns.
