AI Generated Summary
- lasting change can begin with a broom in one hand, a cart in the other, and a steadfast belief in doing the right thing.
- At dawn, while most of the city is still stirring, he steps out of his home in Sector 49 armed with a broom and a cart.
- What began as a personal response to mounting garbage in his neighbourhood has evolved into a powerful symbol of civic responsibility.
Chandigarh has found a quiet hero in Inderjit Singh Sidhu, an 88-year-old retired IPS officer whose daily acts of service have now earned national recognition. Sidhu, a former Deputy Inspector General of Police from the Punjab cadre, has been selected for the Padma Shri award for social service, one of India’s highest civilian honours.
The announcement, made by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs ahead of Republic Day, places Sidhu among 113 awardees this year. He is also one of 45 individuals recognised in the special “unsung heroes” category—citizens whose selfless work often unfolds away from the spotlight.
For years, Sidhu has followed a simple routine that has come to define his post-retirement life. At dawn, while most of the city is still stirring, he steps out of his home in Sector 49 armed with a broom and a cart. Moving through nearby lanes and public spaces, he sweeps streets, gathers litter and personally transports the waste for disposal. What began as a personal response to mounting garbage in his neighbourhood has evolved into a powerful symbol of civic responsibility.
Residents recall that Sidhu initially approached civic agencies about persistent cleanliness issues but saw little improvement. Rather than resign himself to frustration, he chose to act. Alone at first, he took it upon himself to keep his surroundings clean. Over time, his unwavering dedication began to change mindsets. Neighbours who once looked on with curiosity—or even scepticism—now lend a hand, and many cite him as the reason they became more conscious about waste and hygiene.
Sidhu’s efforts reached a wider audience last year when videos of him sweeping roads and pulling a cart laden with garbage went viral on social media. The images resonated across the country and drew praise from prominent figures, including industrialist Anand Mahindra, who described him as an embodiment of discipline, purpose and service beyond titles or age.
Despite the growing attention, Sidhu remains characteristically modest. He often says he is simply doing what he believes every citizen should—keeping their environment clean. For him, dignity lies in labour, and no task is insignificant when it benefits society. He has also expressed hope that Chandigarh can emerge as one of India’s cleanest cities, led not just by policy but by people’s participation.
Welcoming the honour, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria said Sidhu’s recognition reflects the enduring value of public service. He noted that Sidhu’s life is proof that commitment to society does not fade with retirement and that such examples strengthen the nation’s moral foundation.
The Padma Shri for Inderjit Singh Sidhu celebrates more than one man’s perseverance; it underscores the power of individual action. In a time when civic issues often seem overwhelming, Sidhu’s story offers a simple yet profound message: lasting change can begin with a broom in one hand, a cart in the other, and a steadfast belief in doing the right thing.
