The iconic Indian comic book cartoon character, Chacha Chaudhary, whose brain works faster than a computer, has been declared as the official mascot for the centrally-sponsored NamamiGangeProgramme. Union Minister of Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced the appointment of Chacha Chaudhary as the mascot for the mission on Friday, saying that the Centre was making an effort to connect children with the campaign of river cleanliness.
An outlay of Rs. 2.26 crore has been dedicated to the project. The comics will initially be launched in Hindi, English, and Bengali languages.
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has tied up with Diamond Toons, the publisher of the Chacha Chaudhary comics, to conceptualize, develop and distribute the new comics, e-comics, and animated videos featuring the cartoon character. Chacha Chaudhary has been chosen to especially connect children with the campaign of river cleanliness.
According to the Union Government, Namami Gange is not just a program for cleaning river Ganga but an effort to bring collective consciousness among the masses. The initiative brings together Central and State ministries under a common ‘task force’ for the mission and ensures smooth coordination among agencies.