The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), launched in 2014 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stands as one of India’s most impactful public health initiatives. As we approach a decade since its inception, the mission has profoundly transformed India’s sanitation landscape, improving health, dignity, and safety across the country. However, while the mission has achieved remarkable success, several challenges remain as we look towards sustaining these gains in the future.
The first phase of SBM (2014-2019) targeted the elimination of open defecation by building over 100 million toilets, predominantly in rural areas. This initiative sparked one of the largest behavior change movements globally, significantly reducing open defecation. The second phase, currently underway, focuses on solid and liquid waste management to ensure “Sampoorn Swachhata” or complete cleanliness across the country.
Despite the mission’s notable successes, challenges persist. While millions of toilets have been built, ensuring their sustained use and maintenance, particularly in rural areas, remains a pressing concern. Moreover, managing waste efficiently and creating a circular economy around sanitation needs further attention. The government’s ongoing efforts under SBM Phase II must emphasize these aspects.
A key finding from a study published in Nature reveals that SBM has saved 60,000 to 70,000 infant lives annually by reducing exposure to faecal-oral pathogens, which cause diseases like diarrhea and malnutrition. This highlights the vital link between sanitation and public health, underscoring the need for continued investment in these programs.
Looking ahead, the government must focus on fostering community-driven waste management systems, expanding sanitation infrastructure, and recognizing the crucial role played by sanitation workers. This holistic approach will ensure that SBM’s initial gains are not only preserved but expanded upon, driving India towards its goal of a clean, healthy, and sustainable future.
The Swachh Bharat Mission has already laid a strong foundation for sanitation in India. As we build upon its success, we must ensure that this momentum continues, ultimately leading to a permanently clean and green nation.