As we commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), we reflect on a transformative decadal journey that has redefined cleanliness and sanitation in India. Launched on October 2, 2014, this mission was not just an initiative but a movement—a call to every citizen to contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and a Developed India.
Today, SBM has broadened its focus beyond just building and enhancing access to toilets to include clear guidance for communities on adopting effective waste management practices. This shift fosters a sense of responsibility for cleanliness, encouraging individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of their societies.Prime Minister driving the initiative from the front that has resulted in India becoming open defecation free and stirred a people’s participation in our communities.
In urban areas, the SBM has spearheaded a comprehensive approach to waste management. From the implementation of efficient waste segregation systems to the establishment of waste-to-energy plants, cities across the nation have embraced innovative solutions today, which is possible due to the visionary leadership and relentless efforts anchored by our Prime Minister between 2014 and 2024. The introduction of the Swachh Survekshan, an annual cleanliness survey, has fostered healthy competition among cities, driving them to enhance their sanitation and hygiene standards. It has integrated sanitation with health, education, and environmental conservation.
At the heart of the SBM is the active participation of communities. From school children to women’s groups, citizens have become champions of cleanliness. State governments have implemented national policies at the local level, established clear guidelines, and formulated city-specific sanitation strategies and built essential infrastructure, such as public toilets and waste management facilities, while also investing in capacity building through training programmes for municipal staff and cleaners. States have built on their performance, with robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress and make necessary adjustments, utilising tools like Swachh Survekshan.
By collaborating with various sectors, the mission has empowered local bodies, NGOs, and citizens to work together towards a common goal. The emphasis on public-private partnerships has facilitated resource mobilisation and technological innovations, making sanitation solutions more accessible and sustainable. Additionally, initiatives like Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs offer health check-ups and raise awareness about social security benefits, emphasising the mission’s comprehensive approach to community health.
It is important to ensure that sanitation services are inclusive and equitable for marginalised populations and SBM has successfully done that. One of such instances that I have closely witnessed has been in Ambikapur, in Surguja district,Chhattisgarh. With a decentralised waste management plan, this city of around 200,000 residents has effectively minimised landfill waste and managed it at the source, earning recognition both nationally and internationally. A key element of this success is a dedicated group of 470 Safai Karmis, a group of vibrant women trained to manage waste for the city. Their efforts have successfully supported Ambikapur Municipality to not only generate revenue but also reinvest it into community services, demonstrating the socio-economic benefits of inclusive strategies.
Women in Ambikapur drive the entire waste management process — collection and segregation to processing — viewing waste as a resource rather than a liability. This mindset encourages recycling and resource recovery, effectively closing the loop in the waste cycle. By educating the community about responsible waste disposal, they foster active participation in environmental maintenance, unlocking economic opportunities and driving sustainable practices. This bottom-up approach has enabled states to make remarkable strides in waste management.
Ambikapur’s women-led sanitation initiative serves as a promising blueprint for Tier II and Tier III cities looking to implement effective waste management strategies. While each community may face unique challenges, the Ambikapur model illustrates the power of local solutions driven by community engagement. As urban populations grow and waste management becomes increasingly critical, cities worldwide can look to Ambikapur for inspiration. With the right support and commitment, we can transform waste management into a resource for growth and empowerment, benefiting both communities and the environment.
We have numerous instances of empowered women across India, recognising their vital role in advancing the mission’s goals of cleanliness and sanitation. Women are at the forefront of waste management, community education, and health initiatives, making them essential agents of change. Through their active participation, they have not only contributed to public health but have also transformed societal attitudes toward cleanliness and hygiene. One of the impacts of SBM has been the creation of employment opportunities for women, particularly in sanitation roles.
Initiatives like the National Urban Livelihood Mission have provided women with training and resources to engage in waste collection, segregation, and processing. As Safai Karmis, the women gain financial independence and elevate their status within their communities. This economic empowerment plays a crucial role in enhancing their self-esteem and recognition, challenging traditional gender norms. Women also play a pivotal role in community mobilisation and awareness campaigns. They educate families about hygiene practices, waste segregation, and the importance of sanitation. Their involvement fosters a culture of cleanliness, encouraging active participation in SBM initiatives.
In conclusion, the integration of women into the SBM not only enhances the effectiveness of sanitation initiatives but also fosters socio-economic development and gender equity. As we look to the future, the mission continues to evolve. The focus is now shifting towards ensuring sustainability in sanitation practices, addressing the challenges of urbanisation, and promoting the circular economy. By harnessing technology and data-driven approaches, we aim to refine our strategies and expand our reach, ensuring that every corner of the country experiences the benefits of cleanliness.
Moreover, we must continue to instil the values of hygiene and sanitation in future generations. Educational programs that promote awareness about sanitation will be pivotal in maintaining the momentum we have built over the past decade. As we move forward, let us continue to work hand in hand, embracing the spirit of cleanliness and making it an integral part of our daily lives. The journey is far from over, but with determination and collective action, a cleaner, healthier India is within our grasp.
(The writer is the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs)
