As we mark the tenth anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), it is essential to reflect on its profound impact on Indian society and its commitment to sanitation and cleanliness. Launched on October 2, 2014 (Gandhi Jayanti), by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it hasn’t been merely a government program; rather is a transformative movement aimed at realizing Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a clean India. The mission sought to eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management across both rural and urban landscapes, with an ambitious goal of achieving an “Open Defecation Free” (ODF) status by October 2, 2019, coinciding with Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary.
From its inception, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan galvanized citizens from all walks of life. The launch event saw participation from over three million government employees and students who took to the streets, sweeping and raising awareness about sanitation. This grassroots involvement was pivotal in creating a sense of ownership among citizens regarding cleanliness, transforming it into a collective responsibility rather than merely a governmental obligation. The campaign effectively utilized modern communication tools, including social media and celebrity endorsements, to broaden its reach and engage the public in meaningful dialogue about hygiene and sanitation.
One of the most significant achievements of the Swachh Bharat Mission has been the construction of approximately more than 90 million toilets across the country. This monumental effort has dramatically increased access to sanitation facilities in rural areas, where the percentage of households with toilets surged from 43.8% in 2014 to nearly 100% by 2020. This achievement has had a profound impact on public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and children, who are disproportionately affected by inadequate sanitation facilities. The mission’s success in reducing health hazards associated with open defecation cannot be overstated; it has saved countless lives and improved overall community health.
Moreover, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has fostered community engagement through initiatives like Solid Liquid Waste Management (SLWM), empowering local bodies to manage waste effectively at the grassroots level. The introduction of Swachh Survekshan—a cleanliness survey—has further incentivized cities to enhance their sanitation standards by fostering healthy competition among urban local bodies. This innovative approach has not only improved cleanliness but also instilled a sense of pride among citizens regarding their local environments.
At the heart of the Swachh Bharat Mission lies an emphasis on behavioral change. The initiative recognized early on that, constructing toilets was only part of the solution; it required a cultural shift towards hygiene and cleanliness. Public awareness campaigns highlighted the importance of using toilets and maintaining cleanliness in public spaces.
PM Narendra Modi felicitating Swachhagrahis in Motihari
Local leaders and “swachhagrahis” (cleanliness ambassadors) played a crucial role in driving this change within communities. Their tireless efforts to educate residents about sanitation practices have been instrumental in transforming mindsets and fostering a culture of cleanliness.
However, despite its remarkable successes, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan faces several challenges that require urgent attention. One major concern is the sustainability of ODF status achieved during Phase I. Reports indicate that while many villages were declared ODF, maintaining this status remains a challenge due to inadequate maintenance of toilets and a lack of ongoing community engagement. Ensuring that communities remain committed to cleanliness is vital for long-term success.
Inclusivity within the scheme also poses challenges. While financial incentives primarily target Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, there are concerns about exclusion errors where eligible families may miss out on benefits. Experts advocate for universal access to sanitation facilities that encompass all socio-economic strata, ensuring that no one is left behind in this journey towards improved sanitation.
In response to these challenges, Phase II of the Swachh Bharat Mission was launched in March 2020, focusing on “ODF Plus” initiatives aimed at sustaining ODF status while enhancing solid and liquid waste management across Gram Panchayats. This phase emphasizes integrated waste management solutions and aims to ensure that every village has effective systems for managing waste.
Looking ahead, there is a growing need for collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance funding for sanitation projects. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives can play a vital role in supporting local sanitation efforts and ensuring that all communities benefit from improved facilities.
As we commemorate ten years of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, it is crucial to recognize that cleanliness is not just a government responsibility but a collective one. The success of this mission hinges on continued public engagement, community participation, and sustained efforts towards behavioral change. Reflecting on this journey reminds us that while significant progress has been made, much work remains. By fostering a culture of cleanliness and ensuring inclusive access to sanitation facilities for all citizens, we can truly realize Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a clean and healthy nation. The next decade will be pivotal in cementing these gains and ensuring that cleanliness becomes an integral part of our national identity, a shared commitment that transcends individual interests for the greater good of society!