NDMC certifies Golf Links as ninth Anupam Colony for zero-waste living
Synopsis
Golf Links has become NDMC's ninth Anupam Colony — a designation that now spans nine New Delhi neighbourhoods certified for zero-waste living in just over a year. The rapid rollout signals that community-led waste management, anchored by source segregation and on-site composting, is gaining traction as a scalable urban model in the capital.
Key Takeaways
NDMC Chairperson Keshav Chandra certified Golf Links as an Anupam Colony on 25 June 2026 .
Golf Links is the ninth residential colony to receive the designation under NDMC's Waste Management and Sustainability Initiative.
The colony practises source segregation , channels recyclables to appropriate facilities, and converts wet waste into compost reused within the colony.
Certifications began in June 2025 with Chanakyapuri and have expanded to include Bharti Nagar, Aradhana, Bapu Dham, New Moti Bagh, Kaka Nagar, Jor Bagh, Sangli Apartments, and now Golf Links.
NDMC is actively encouraging Resident Welfare Associations and NGOs across the city to join the programme.
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) on 25 June 2026 conferred the 'Anupam Colony' status on Golf Links, making it the ninth residential neighbourhood in the capital to be recognised for exemplary waste management and sustainability practices. NDMC Chairperson Keshav Chandra unveiled the certification plaque at the colony, marking a significant milestone in the civic body's broader sustainability agenda.
What the Certification Means
The Anupam Colony designation is awarded to residential communities that demonstrate scientific waste management — specifically source segregation, channelling of recyclables to appropriate facilities, and conversion of wet waste into compost for horticultural use. Golf Links Colony has achieved all three benchmarks, with compost generated on-site being reused within the colony itself.
'NDMC takes immense pride in recognising Golf Links Colony as the ninth Anupam Colony under our Waste Management and Sustainability Initiative,' Chandra said at the ceremony. He added that the colony 'has set a remarkable example by effectively practising source segregation of waste.'
Nine Colonies Certified So Far
With Golf Links, NDMC has now brought nine colonies under the Anupam umbrella. The full list, in order of certification: Chanakyapuri (D-1, D-2 and Satya Sadan Officers' Flats) in June 2025; Bharti Nagar in July 2025; Aradhana (Burmah Shell Cooperative Housing Society Ltd.) in 2025; Bapu Dham in September 2025; New Moti Bagh in October 2025; Kaka Nagar in February 2026; Jor Bagh in May 2026; Sangli Apartments in June 2026; and now Golf Links in June 2026.
Role of Community and NGOs
Chandra specifically commended the contribution of partner voluntary organisations, NGOs, and community groups, calling their 'continuous support and active participation' central to achieving the milestone. The initiative is driven jointly by Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and the civic body, with NDMC providing the certification framework while residents lead implementation.
This community-led model, officials argue, is replicable across other neighbourhoods and could serve as a blueprint for Delhi's broader waste reduction goals.
What Comes Next
NDMC has urged RWAs and citizens across its jurisdiction to enrol in the Anupam Colony programme, positioning it as a key pillar of its vision for a Swachh, Green and Sustainable Capital City. With nine colonies certified in just over a year, the pace of expansion signals institutional momentum — though the programme's long-term impact will depend on sustaining resident participation beyond the certification event.
Point of View
But the Anupam Colony programme's real test is durability, not optics. Waste segregation in Indian cities has historically collapsed once the initial enthusiasm fades and informal rag-picker networks are disrupted. NDMC has not yet publicly detailed how compliance is monitored post-certification or what happens to a colony that lapses. Without a robust audit mechanism and sustained NGO engagement, the plaques risk becoming ceremonial rather than transformative. The model is worth watching — but the scorecard should be measured in tonnes diverted from landfill, not colonies on a list.
NationPress
25 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Anupam Colony initiative by NDMC?
The Anupam Colony initiative is a flagship programme under NDMC's sustainability agenda that certifies residential neighbourhoods for adopting scientific waste management practices — including source segregation, recycling, and composting. It aims to transform colonies into self-sustaining, environmentally conscious communities.
Why was Golf Links certified as an Anupam Colony?
Golf Links was certified because residents effectively practise source segregation, channel recyclable materials to appropriate facilities, and convert wet waste into compost that is reused for horticultural purposes within the colony itself. NDMC cited it as a model of community-led waste management.
How many Anupam Colonies has NDMC certified so far?
As of 25 June 2026, NDMC has certified nine Anupam Colonies: Chanakyapuri, Bharti Nagar, Aradhana, Bapu Dham, New Moti Bagh, Kaka Nagar, Jor Bagh, Sangli Apartments, and Golf Links. Certifications began in June 2025.
Who led the Golf Links certification ceremony?
NDMC Chairperson Keshav Chandra led the ceremony, unveiling the certification plaque at Golf Links Colony on 25 June 2026. He also commended partner NGOs and community groups for their role in achieving the milestone.
How can other colonies join the Anupam Colony programme?
NDMC has urged Resident Welfare Associations and citizens across its jurisdiction to actively participate in the programme. Colonies that adopt source segregation, recycling, and composting practices can apply for the Anupam Colony certification through NDMC's sustainability initiative.
