Mawlynnong: A Model of Cleanliness and Sustainability in Meghalaya

In the wake of industrialization, modern humans have lost touch with their origins and have created a world driven by artificial means. This has severed their connection with nature, and now they are striving to re-establish this bond through technological innovations and economic investment. NGOs and the government organize plantations and cleanliness drives to improve city living conditions and reduce pollution. However, one major hurdle we face in this process is the lack of civic sense among the people, which makes cleanliness and environmental friendliness a challenge.

Amid the current scenario, there lies an extraordinary Khasi village in the hills of Meghalaya, holding the distinguished title of the "Cleanest village of Asia" - Mawlynnong.

There are many salient features of this village which earn it this honorable title. Let's curate your visit to Mawlynglong:

Known as God's Own Garden, Mawlynglong is a small and graceful village located 90 km away from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. It is home to around 900 people and all the villagers belong to the Khasi tribe; it is an epitome of how the tribe lives in harmony with nature. Walking through the village lanes, you will witness a different view than that of mainstream India. There is not even a trace of litter on the roads – no spitting marks, no human or animal waste. Instead, there are beautifully handwoven bamboo baskets at regular intervals. These eco-friendly dustbins are crafted by local women and look so artistic that they could easily be mistaken for showpieces.

The villagers welcome you with their warm, homely voices, making you feel like settling here for the rest of your life. This is Mawlynglong.

During an interview, Mr. Thombin, the village head, proudly stated that every villager, from the youngest to the elders has a strong sense of devotion and responsibility towards keeping the village clean. He emphasized that this commitment is not forced, but rather comes naturally to them.

THE VILLAGERS HAVE THE PUREST LOVE FOR THEIR HAMLET

The people lead a simple lifestyle, relying mostly on tourism and agriculture. They exhibit a high level of civic sense, reflected in their commitment to cleanliness.

"Each and every morning we come together and sweep the streets because it is our habit to keep our environment clean " said Henry Kharry, the cleanliness in charge of the village.

Every child must complete the ritual of cleaning the streets in the morning before leaving for school. Undoubtedly, this practice instills a love for nature from a young age that lasts a lifetime.

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES OF THE VILLAGERS

The Khasi people are known for their cleanliness and love for nature. Today, when every environmentalist is encouraging sustainable practices, they have been mastering them for centuries.

• Dried leaves are collected in a pit and turned into manure which is then used as a biofertilizer in the fields producing organic and pesticide-free yield.
• The leftover food is fed to pigs and cattle outside the village.
• Most houses have soak pits in their yards for this purpose.
• Food is prepared using organic products.
• Traditional Khasi architecture is used for building houses, utilizing sustainable bamboo as a biomass for construction. These eco-friendly houses exemplify sustainability.

A CIVILIZED SOCIETY

It is said that education is a major backbone of a civilized society. The people of Mawlynnong are not only literate but also educated. This village has around 98% literacy and their education is reflected in their activities.

• It is one of the few villages in Asia where every household has toilets.
• In fact, it is assured by the village authorities that before the construction of any new house, its washrooms are built.
• Pay and use public toilets are found at regular intervals.
• Smoking is prohibited in the village premises even for tourists.
• The use of plastic is banned in the village.
• Any tourist who happens to litter in the village premises needs to pay a heavy penalty to the authorities.

Today, amidst international discussions on environmental crises, the village of Mawlynglong stands as an exemplary model, inspiring us to address global challenges with determination and innovation.

REFERENCES

• https://youtu.be/dImMkFAsfG8?si=_x2DaBelfN4Rc7I9
• https://youtu.be/O0MJa27WgOM?si=FtcfS0nNcX7Ddhku
• https://youtu.be/IZrb7B5RVn0?si=sPvMqdt_-6paD5l6