A function was organized by the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department under the chairmanship of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Virender Kanwar here today. Panchayats were rewarded and appreciated for the excellent work done by them in rural areas under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan during the function.Virender Kanwar said that special emphasis was being given by the state government on cleanliness drive in the state. He said that on November 19, various activities were organized on World Toilet Day in the state. He said that most people in the state live in rural areas and it increases the importance of cleanliness drive in rural areas.He said that we are going to celebrate the year 2019 as the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and it would be true tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by making the country clean by active cooperation of all. He said that due to the increase in population and development activities in the state the waste is generated in large volume which needed to be taken care of properly.Gram Panchayats which received awards during the function includes Bermana, Oasthal, Skoh, Aima, Bari, Duhara, Tabo, Gue, Swanmahun, Thanadhar, Nauni and Ajauli. One lakh rupees and citation was given to each winner Gram Panchayat.Director Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Rakesh Kanwar, Joint Director Gian Sagar Negi, senior departmental officers and representatives of Gram Panchayats were also present in the function.