The Swachh Bharat Mission –Grameen (SBM) is a transformative initiative of the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Launched on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the SBM has ushered in an unprecedented revolution in the realm of cleanliness and sanitation in India. This blog delves into the remarkable journey of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, highlighting its distinctive features and the far-reaching impact it has had on Indian society.
A Bold Inception:
What makes the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan unique is its unconventional start. In his 2014 Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Modi made a historic announcement by launching the mission. Unlike previous speeches that often focused on lofty government goals, Modi’s emphasis was on the urgent need to eradicate open defecation in the country.
Remarkable Progress:
Since its inception, the SBM has made significant progress, driven by evidence-based assessments. The following statistics highlight the mission’s impact:
1. Toilet Construction: One of the mission’s key components was the construction of toilets. To date, it has equipped 8.7 crore rural households with this essential facility.
2. Behavioral Change: The most notable change has been in societal behavior. For years, Indian households were resistant to having toilets inside their homes, considering it a cultural taboo. Even after 70 years of independence in 2014, a shockingly low percentage of households had access to toilets.
Behavior Change on the Ground:
The transformation in societal behavior is a testament to the mission’s success. The National Rural Sanitation Survey (NARSS), supported by the World Bank, revealed that 93.4% of rural Indian households with access to toilets are using them. This data reflects a substantial shift in behavior from open defecation to using sanitary facilities. The mission successfully brought this taboo issue into the open, fostering both economic and societal transformation.
Empowering Women:
One of the most commendable aspects of the SBM is its impact on women. It not only upholds the dignity of women but also actively involves them in the mission from grassroots levels. Women were given crucial roles to emphasize the importance of toilets in both homes and the broader community.
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, launched by PM Modi, celebrates the contribution of India’s Nari Shakti (women’s power) in the mission. Women have become integral partners in the SBM, driving home the significance of sanitation and hygiene.
 is a transformative initiative of the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Launched on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the SBM has ushered in an unprecedented revolution in the realm of cleanliness and sanitation in India. This blog delves into the remarkable journey of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, highlighting its distinctive features and the far-reaching impact it has had on Indian society.){kind=link}