Blue-Print for Urban
Waste Management
As we commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Swachh Bharat
Mission (SBM), we reflect on a transformative decadal journey that has
redefined cleanliness and sanitation in India. Launched on October 2, 2014,
this mission was not just an initiative but a movement—a call to every citizen
to contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and a Vikshit Bharat. Today, SBM has
broadened its focus beyond just building and enhancing access to toilets to
include clear guidance for communities on adopting effective waste management
practices. This shift fosters a sense of responsibility for cleanliness,
encouraging individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of their
societies. Prime Minister driving the initiative from the front that has
resulted in India becoming open defecation free and stirred a Jan Bhagidari in
our communities.
In urban areas, the SBM has spearheaded a comprehensive
approach to waste management. From the implementation of efficient waste
segregation systems to the establishment of waste-to-energy plants, cities
across the nation have embraced innovative solutions today, which is possible
due to the visionary leadership and relentless efforts anchored by our
honourable Prime Minister between 2014 -2024.
The introduction of the Swachh Survekshan, an annual
cleanliness survey, has fostered healthy competition among cities, driving them
to enhance their sanitation and hygiene standards. It has integrated sanitation
with health, education, and environmental conservation.
At the heart of the SBM is the active participation of
communities. From school children to women’s groups, citizens have become
champions of cleanliness. State governments have implemented national policies
at the local level, established clear guidelines, and formulated city-specific
sanitation strategies and built essential infrastructure, such as public
toilets and waste management facilities, while also investing in capacity
building through training programs for municipal staff and Safai Karmacharis. States
have built on their performance, with robust monitoring and evaluation
mechanisms to track progress and make necessary adjustments, utilizing tools
like Swachh Survekshan. By collaborating with various sectors, the mission has
empowered local bodies, NGOs, and citizens to work together towards a common
goal. The emphasis on public-private partnerships has facilitated resource
mobilization and technological innovations, making sanitation solutions more
accessible and sustainable. Additionally, initiatives like Safai Mitra Suraksha
Shivirs offer health check-ups and raise awareness about social security
benefits, emphasizing the mission’s comprehensive approach to community health.
Its important to ensure that sanitation services are
inclusive and equitable for marginalized populations and SBM has successfully
done that. One of such instances, that I have closely witnessed has been in
Ambikapur, in Surguja district, Chattisgarh. With a decentralized waste
management plan, this city of around 200,000 residents has effectively
minimized landfill waste and managed it at the source, earning recognition both
nationally and internationally. A key element of this success is a dedicated group
of 470 Safai Karmis, a group of vibrant women trained to manage waste for the
city. Their efforts has successfully supported Ambikapur Municipality to not
only generate revenue but also reinvest it into community services,
demonstrating the socio-economic benefits of inclusive strategies.
Women in Ambikapur drive the entire waste management
process—from collection and segregation to processing—viewing waste as a
resource rather than a liability. This mindset encourages recycling and
resource recovery, effectively closing the loop in the waste cycle. By
educating the community about responsible waste disposal, they foster active
participation in environmental maintenance, unlocking economic opportunities
and driving sustainable practices. This bottom-up approach has enabled states
to make remarkable strides in waste management.
Ambikapur’s women-led sanitation initiative serves as a
promising blueprint for Tier II and Tier III cities looking to implement
effective waste management strategies. While each community may face unique
challenges, the Ambikapur model illustrates the power of local solutions driven
by community engagement. As urban populations grow and waste management becomes
increasingly critical, cities worldwide can look to Ambikapur for inspiration.
With the right support and commitment, we can transform waste management into a
resource for growth and empowerment, benefiting both communities and the
environment.
We have numerous instances of empowered women across India,
recognizing their vital role in advancing the mission's goals of cleanliness
and sanitation. Women are at the forefront of waste management, community
education, and health initiatives, making them essential agents of change.
Through their active participation, they have not only contributed to public
health but have also transformed societal attitudes toward cleanliness and
hygiene. One of the impacts of SBM has been the creation of employment opportunities
for women, particularly in sanitation roles. Initiatives like the National
Urban Livelihood Mission have provided women with training and resources to
engage in waste collection, segregation, and processing. As Safai Karmis, the
women gain financial independence and elevate their status within their
communities. This economic empowerment plays a crucial role in enhancing their
self-esteem and recognition, challenging traditional gender norms. Women also
play a pivotal role in community mobilization and awareness campaigns. They
educate families about hygiene practices, waste segregation, and the importance
of sanitation. Their involvement fosters a culture of cleanliness, encouraging
active participation in SBM initiatives.
In conclusion, the integration of women into the SBM not
only enhances the effectiveness of sanitation initiatives but also fosters
socio-economic development and gender equity. As we look to the future, the
mission continues to evolve. The focus is now shifting towards ensuring
sustainability in sanitation practices, addressing the challenges of
urbanization, and promoting the circular economy. By harnessing technology and
data-driven approaches, we aim to refine our strategies and expand our reach,
ensuring that every corner of the country experiences the benefits of
cleanliness. Moreover, we must continue to instil the values of hygiene and
sanitation in future generations. Educational programs that promote awareness
about sanitation will be pivotal in maintaining the momentum we have built over
the past decade. As we move forward, let us continue to work hand in hand,
embracing the spirit of Swachhata and making it an integral part of our daily
lives. The journey is far from over, but with determination and collective
action, a cleaner, healthier India is within our grasp.
(A PIB Feature)