SUJALAM: 100-Day Campaign for ODF-Plus Villages

The Jal Shakti Ministry of India has initiated a significant campaign titled SUJALAM to bolster the nation’s commitment to sanitation and water conservation. This 100-days drive is part of the broader Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, marking 75 years of India’s independence. The aim of SUJALAM is to enhance the status of villages to Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus by focusing on efficient management of wastewater at the village level. This initiative not only targets infrastructural development but also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and awareness in maintaining sustainable water resources.

Objectives of the SUJALAM Campaign

The primary goal of the SUJALAM campaign is to create more ODF Plus villages across India. An ODF Plus village is not only free from open defecation but also ensures that solid and liquid waste management systems are in place. To achieve this, the campaign has set forth a plan to construct 1 million Soak-pits. These pits are designed to absorb and reduce the flow of greywater into open land and waterbodies, thereby preventing soil and water pollution.

Furthermore, the campaign promotes other greywater management activities. Greywater, which is relatively clean waste water from baths, sinks, washing machines, and other kitchen appliances, can be detrimental to the environment if not managed properly. By implementing effective greywater management practices, the campaign aims to reduce environmental degradation and promote water conservation.

Infrastructure Development and Waterbody Management

An essential component of the SUJALAM campaign is the development of infrastructure that supports waste water management. This includes the construction of soak-pits, but extends to other structures that help in the treatment and reuse of wastewater. By doing so, the campaign addresses both sanitation and water scarcity issues.

In addition to infrastructure for waste water management, the campaign also focuses on the sustainable management of waterbodies in villages and their outskirts. Revival of these water sources is critical for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring that communities have access to clean water for various uses.

Community Participation and Swachh Bharat Mission Synergy

The success of any public campaign largely depends on the participation and support of the community it serves. SUJALAM is no exception, and it actively encourages community involvement in its activities. The campaign seeks to educate and engage villagers in the creation and maintenance of sanitation infrastructure, thus fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards cleanliness and environmental conservation.

Moreover, the SUJALAM campaign is designed to complement and boost the momentum of the Swachh Bharat Mission, which is a nationwide initiative launched by the Government of India to clean up the streets, roads, and infrastructure of cities, towns, and rural areas. By aligning with the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission, SUJALAM reinforces the message of cleanliness and sanitation while expanding its scope to include the management of greywater and the revival of waterbodies.

Increasing Awareness and Education

Awareness and education are critical to changing behaviors and attitudes towards sanitation and water conservation. The SUJALAM campaign places a strong emphasis on these aspects by disseminating information about the benefits of ODF Plus villages and the importance of managing waste water effectively. Through various communication channels and educational programs, the campaign aims to increase awareness about the health, environmental, and economic benefits of improved sanitation practices.

By educating the public, particularly in rural areas, about the impact of untreated waste water on health and the environment, the campaign hopes to inspire a change in daily habits and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices that contribute to the overall well-being of communities and the country.