Answer:

The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has transformed India’s sanitation landscape by building over 100 million toilets and declaring rural India Open Defecation Free (ODF) in 2019. Involving millions of citizens, SBM has significantly improved public health, generated economic benefits, and changed sanitation behaviours, impacting the lives of over 600 million people.

SBM as a Transformative Initiative in India’s Developmental Journey

• Elimination of Open Defecation SBM achieved the monumental goal of eliminating open defecation by constructing over 100 million toilets, improving public health and sanitation across India.
  For example: By 2019, all Indian states were declared Open Defecation Free (ODF), significantly reducing contamination and improving hygiene.
• Improved Public Health The mission has led to a reduction in diseases like diarrhoea and cholera, contributing to better health outcomes.
  For instance: A UNICEF report in 2019 highlighted reduction in diarrheal deaths due to improved sanitation infrastructure.
• Empowerment of Women SBM has improved safety and dignity for women by providing them access to toilets, reducing the risks associated with open defecation.
  For instance: Women in rural Rajasthan reported feeling safer and more dignified after household toilets were built under SBM.
• Community Participation and Behavioral Change SBM fostered a people’s movement by involving communities in cleanliness drives and sanitation awareness programs.
  For example: The Swachh Bharat Ambassadors program encouraged public participation, leading to mass behavioural changes across villages and cities.
• Economic Savings and Growth By improving sanitation, SBM has led to significant savings in healthcare costs and boosted productivity due to better health.
  For instance: A World Bank study estimated that SBM saved households a significant amount in medical expenses related to poor sanitation.

Positive Impact of SBM on various aspects of Indian Society:

Public Health

• Reduction in Waterborne Diseases: The widespread toilet construction has led to a marked decrease in waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and cholera, significantly improving public health.
  For example: UNICEF reports a reduction in child deaths from diarrhoea in rural areas with improved sanitation.
• Improved Maternal and Child Health: Better sanitation has reduced infection risks during childbirth, enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes.
• Promotion of Hygiene Practices: SBM has encouraged hygiene practices, like handwashing, leading to lower transmission of infectious diseases.
  For example: WHO reported reduced absenteeism in schools with handwashing stations under SBM.
• Reduction in Malnutrition: Improved sanitation has lowered pathogen exposure, contributing to reduced malnutrition in children.
  For example: UNICEF noted lower stunting rates in children from villages with proper sanitation.

Economy

• Reduction in Healthcare Costs: The decline in sanitation-related diseases has reduced healthcare expenditures for families.
• Increased Productivity: Healthier populations contribute to improved productivity, benefiting the economy.
  For example: The World Bank observed fewer work days lost due to illness in rural areas, spurring economic growth.
• Job Creation: The construction of sanitation infrastructure has generated employment opportunities, especially in rural areas.
  For example: The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation estimates vast job creation due to the construction of over 100 million toilets.
• Boost in Tourism Revenue: Cleaner public spaces have increased India’s appeal as a tourist destination.
  For example: Varanasi saw an increase in tourism revenue due to SBM-led cleanliness improvements.

Social Dignity

• Increased Safety for Women: Household toilets have improved women’s safety, reducing the risks associated with open defecation.
  For instance: A Madhya Pradesh survey highlighted reduced harassment cases after the construction of household toilets.
• Restored Privacy and Dignity: SBM has restored privacy and dignity for millions, particularly women and marginalised groups.
  For instance: Women in Rajasthan reported improved social standing due to access to toilets.
• Reduction in Caste Discrimination: Public toilets under SBM have helped reduce caste-based discrimination in rural India.
  For example: Tamil Nadu saw reduced social hierarchies due to equal access to sanitation facilities. 

Challenges and Negative Impact of SBM on various aspects of Indian society:

Public Health Challenges

• Behavioral Change Resistance: Despite ODF status, many communities revert to open defecation due to ingrained habits.
  For example: Jharkhand reports that some of its rural population has returned to open defecation despite toilet availability.
• Inadequate Waste Management: SBM has struggled with effective waste disposal, especially in urban areas.
  For example: Delhi continues to face challenges with insufficient waste treatment facilities.
• Lack of Focus on Hygiene Beyond Toilet Use: While toilet construction has been prioritised, practices like safe water handling and menstrual hygiene have not received enough attention.
  For example: A study by WaterAid found that menstrual hygiene management is still inadequate in many regions.

Economic Challenges

• Maintenance of Infrastructure: Poor maintenance of sanitation infrastructure has rendered many toilets non-functional.
  For example: A Rajasthan report found that many toilets built during SBM were unusable due to lack of upkeep.
• Cost Burden on Low-Income Families: Some households bear the cost of toilet maintenance, which may be unaffordable for low-income families.
  For example: Families in rural Bihar reported challenges in affording repairs, leading to non-use of toilets.

Social Challenges

• Unequal Access in Remote Areas: Tribal and remote regions face challenges in accessing sanitation facilities.
  For example: In Chhattisgarh, many tribal communities remain without toilets due to geographical isolation.
• Stigma Around Sanitation Workers: Despite SBM’s focus, workers involved in waste management continue to face social stigma and discrimination.
  For example: Manual scavengers still face marginalisation despite laws prohibiting such practices.

Way Forward:

• Intensifying Behavioural Change: Campaigns Strengthening campaigns for behavioural change is crucial for sustaining ODF status.
  For instance: Expanding the Swachh Bharat Ambassador Program can influence local leaders to promote consistent use of toilets and sanitation practices in rural communities.
• Strengthening Waste Management Systems: Investing in waste management infrastructure is vital for urban areas.
  For example: Cities like Mumbai can benefit from decentralised sewage treatment plants, improving waste disposal and reducing environmental impact.
• Ensuring Water Supply and Maintenance: Governments must ensure maintenance and consistent water supply for sanitation facilities.
  For instance: Madhya Pradesh has initiated financial support for toilet maintenance, a model that could be scaled nationwide to ensure the long-term functionality of sanitation infrastructure.
• Securing Adequate Funding: Continuous funding is essential for the success of sanitation initiatives.
• Focusing on Inclusivity: Special attention must be given to tribal and remote communities to ensure equitable access to sanitation.
  For example: The government can prioritise infrastructure projects in northeastern states, ensuring that even the most remote areas are included in the SBM framework.

The Swachh Bharat Mission has transformed public health, improved the economy, and enhanced social dignity. However, for lasting impact, addressing challenges like behavioural change and waste management is crucial. With sustained efforts, SBM Phase 2 can further drive sanitation improvements, making India a global leader in sustainable sanitation practices and enhancing overall quality of life for all citizens.

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