Chandigarh’s unsung hero, Inderjeet Singh Sidhu, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award for 2026 in the field of social work. The announcement from the Central Government marks a fitting tribute to his relentless crusade against littering on streets, parks, and public spaces.
Every day, Sidhu steps out with a simple mission: to keep his surroundings spotless. Armed with basic tools, he picks up trash that others ignore, undeterred by mocking glances or labels of madness. ‘People call me crazy, but I can’t stand dirt,’ he asserts firmly.
In an exclusive conversation, the elated awardee expressed profound gratitude. ‘I’m thankful to India for recognizing an elder like me. This brings immense joy,’ Sidhu shared. He emphasized that cleanliness is everyone’s duty, yet many spread filth without a second thought. ‘They seem to like it, but I hate it. So, I clean it myself.’
His voice trembled as he recalled the taunts faced during cleanup drives. Being branded ‘mad’ stings, but it fuels his resolve. Sidhu’s efforts transcend mere sweeping; they inspire the youth to embrace hygiene regardless of age.
Last year, a video of his early morning trash collection went viral, spotlighting his dedication. This Padma Shri is not just personal glory—it’s a clarion call for collective responsibility in building a cleaner nation.