Swachhata Hi Seva (Cleanliness is Service) is an initiative launched by the Central Government of India with the aim of promoting public participation in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation. Since its inception on September 15, 2017, this campaign has sought to engage stakeholders and the general public in making every village in India ODF Plus, which stands for Open Defecation Free Plus. The campaign emphasizes the importance of sanitation as a collective responsibility. In 2021, the Swachhata Hi Seva movement was incorporated into the larger framework of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, marking a continued commitment to cleanliness and public health.
Origin and Purpose of Swachhata Hi Seva
The Swachhata Hi Seva campaign was initiated as part of a broader effort to promote cleanliness and sanitation across India. This program is rooted in the belief that cleanliness is not just the responsibility of sanitation workers but of every citizen. By involving people from all walks of life, the campaign aims to create a lasting impact on the cleanliness habits of the population. The objective is to instill the idea that maintaining hygiene and sanitation is a form of service to the nation, contributing to the overall well-being and health of the community.
ODF Plus: A Step Beyond Open Defecation Free
One of the key goals of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign is to achieve ODF Plus status for every village in India. ODF Plus goes beyond the initial target of eliminating open defecation. It includes the sustainable maintenance of toilet facilities, the proper management of solid and liquid waste, and the promotion of general hygiene practices. Achieving ODF Plus status is a significant milestone that denotes not only the availability of basic sanitation infrastructure but also the community’s commitment to upholding cleanliness standards.
Public Participation and Stakeholder Engagement
The success of Swachhata Hi Seva is largely dependent on active public participation and the involvement of various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, civil society organizations, and individual volunteers. The campaign encourages people to take part in cleanliness drives, awareness programs, and educational initiatives that spread the message of hygiene and sanitation. By fostering a sense of ownership among the citizens, the campaign ensures that the efforts for cleanliness are sustained over time.
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and Swachhata Hi Seva 2021
In 2021, the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign was integrated into the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, a nationwide celebration commemorating 75 years of India’s independence. The campaign was organized from September 15 to October 2, aligning with the historic dates associated with Mahatma Gandhi, a champion of cleanliness and sanitation. During this period, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, spearheaded efforts across the nation to reinforce the message of Swachhata Hi Seva and encourage widespread participation in cleanliness activities.
Nationwide Initiatives and Activities
Throughout the duration of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, numerous initiatives and activities are conducted to engage the public and promote sanitation. These include cleanliness pledges, workshops on waste management, construction and maintenance of toilet facilities, and the distribution of sanitation-related literature. Schools, colleges, and other educational institutions play a crucial role in these initiatives, educating the younger generation about the importance of cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
Impact and Progress of Swachhata Hi Seva
Since its launch, Swachhata Hi Seva has made significant strides in improving sanitation across India. The campaign has contributed to increased awareness about the importance of cleanliness and has led to the construction of millions of toilets, drastically reducing the prevalence of open defecation. The initiative has also fostered a culture of cleanliness, with more communities actively participating in maintaining their local environments. As the campaign continues, the goal is to sustain these achievements and work towards a cleaner, healthier India for all.