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Source: The post Swachh Bharat Mission’s 10-year impact has been created, based on the article “How Swachh Bharat Mission advanced progress on safety and dignity, health and economy” published in “Indian Express” on 10th August 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- Governance-Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes
Context: The article discusses the Swachh Bharat Mission’s 10-year impact, highlighting its success in reducing infant and child mortality by providing toilets. Launched in 2014, it transformed sanitation practices in India, improved health and dignity, and inspired global sanitation efforts.
For detailed information on Success of the Swachh Bharat Mission read this article here
What is the Swachh Bharat Mission?
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched on October 2, 2014, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the goal of eliminating open defecation in India by October 2, 2019. It aimed to change the sanitation habits of 550 million Indians by providing over 100 million household toilets.
What are the Key Achievements of the SBM?
- Open Defecation Free (ODF) India: By October 2, 2019, all Indian states declared themselves ODF, impacting 550 million people by changing their sanitation habits.
- Health Impact: The Nature journal reports that SBM saved 60,000–70,000 lives annually among children under five by reducing sanitation-related diseases.
- Dignity and Security for Women and Girls: SBM improved safety, privacy, and dignity for women by providing access to household toilets.
- Economic Benefits: A UNICEF study found that ODF status saved each household Rs 50,000 annually due to reduced medical expenses and time savings.
- SDG 6: SBM’s success in improving sanitation contributed to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation).
- Global Influence: Inspired global initiatives like Nigeria’s “Clean Nigeria Campaign” and influenced global sanitation policies through the four Ps—political leadership, public financing, partnerships, and people’s participation—shared at the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention in 2018.
What other initiatives improved the quality of life in India?
Alongside SBM, other programs like Ujjwala (cooking gas), Jan Dhan (bank accounts), Awas Yojana (housing), Ayushman Bharat (medical insurance), and Jal Jeevan Mission (water access) were successfully implemented. These improved the quality of life and ease of living for millions of Indians.
Question for practice:
Examine how the Swachh Bharat Mission has contributed to improving health, dignity, and economic conditions in India.
