Anand Mahindra shared a video of 88-year-old retired IPS officer Inderjit Singh Sidhu sweeping the streets of Chandigarh at dawn, showcasing his dedication.
Anand Mahindra Shares Video of 88-Year-Old Ex-IPS Officer sidhu Leading Cleanliness Drive in Chandigarh
Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently took to social media platform (formerly Twitter) to share an inspiring video of 88-year-old retired IPS officer Inderjit Singh Sidhu, who has been quietly leading a solo cleanliness drive in Chandigarh. The video has since gone viral, drawing widespread admiration and respect from users across the country.
In the video, Sidhu can be seen picking up litter and loading it onto a cart in Chandigarh’s Sector 49 area. What makes the act extraordinary is not just Sidhu’s age, but his unwavering commitment to cleanliness and civic responsibility—without seeking any recognition or reward.
A 1964-batch Indian Police Service officer, Sidhu has made it his daily routine to begin work at 6 a.m., clearing the streets of his locality. Despite his advanced age, his dedication remains unmatched, earning him praise from both citizens and public figures alike.
Sharing the video with his followers, Mahindra wrote, “Apparently, every morning at 6 AM, in the quiet streets of Chandigarh’s Sector 49, this 88-year-old retired police officer begins his day in service.” He went on to highlight the deeper message behind Sidhu’s actions: “Each piece of trash he clears is more than just litter removed. It’s a statement. A quiet, persistent belief in a better world. A belief in living with meaning, regardless of age or recognition.
Anand Mahindra NOTED, SIDHU reminder of the power of individual responsibility
Anand Mahindra also noted that Sidhu was moved to take action after seeing Chandigarh’s ‘low rank’ in the Swachh Survekshan survey. Rather than complain, he chose to take matters into his own hands. “In a world often obsessed with youth and speed, his slow but steady footsteps tell us that purpose doesn’t retire. Service doesn’t age. A salute to this quiet warrior of the streets,” Mahindra added.
Sidhu’s humble yet powerful gesture has struck a chord online, where users praised him as a role model and an embodiment of public service. His efforts remind citizens that change often starts at the individual level—and that age is no barrier to contributing to society.
In an interview with ANI, Sidhu shared what motivates him. “I like a clean place, so I try to clean. It would be good if the parking area in this market was kept clean,” he said. Drawing comparisons to cleanliness standards in foreign countries, Sidhu pointed out how clean public spaces abroad often are, and how India should aspire to reach that level.
He expressed pride in Chandigarh’s status, saying, “In the cleanliness competition across India, Chandigarh has ranked second. Chandigarh is famous for its cleanliness and beauty.”
But for Sidhu, second place isn’t enough. “All my efforts are to actually make it appear like a city that is number two in terms of cleanliness. If we all continue to do so, it will become number one one day,” he said with optimism.
Sidhu’s example is a stirring reminder of the power of individual responsibility. His quiet dedication has turned a simple act of service into a movement—one that’s now inspiring an entire nation.
