Harsh Goenka points out one quality Indians need to learn from the Japanese, says we must ensure better civic sense

Harsh Goenka, Indian billionaire and current chairman of Mumbai-headquartered RPG Enterprises, took to social media to talk about the difference between India and Japan when it comes to maintaining cleanliness.

"In Japan, cleanliness is culture -everyone contributes, starting young. In India, PM Modi gave us direction ‘Swachh Bharat’. But a slogan can’t sweep streets. Parents, schools, society- we all must act and ensure better civic sense. Let’s make our Country a better place to live!" said Goenka in a post on X.

Check post here


How did people react?
"Yes, a slogan can't sweep streets. But beyond slogan, the push also has to come from the authorities. People will join the drive once they see that the authorities are serious about cleanliness," said one user.

"In India, only the advent of a leader in a city makes local administration think about cleanliness. A sad reality. We love to wallow in filth. I hope things will change only after one hundred years of filth," said another user.

"Japan offers so many life long lessons. There should be at least one subject in education system “Nation First” & it should teach responsibilities & what is expected of citizens," said another user in reply to Goenka's post.

Another user said, "Sorry @hvgoenka Goenka Sahab, but we as Indians will take a very long time (if at all) to reach this level. Look at where we live-in Mumbai where is the civic sense in people...kachra all over.. roads dug up! I wish we as Citizens and Govt become more aware and responsible."

Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched in 2014 to achieve an open defecation free (ODF) India in five years. This progressed the country towards SDG 6.2, which aims for adequate and equitable sanitation access for all, especially for women and girls.