Waste to WOW – Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen)’s transformative journey in Rural Gujarat

–By Manisha Chandra, IAS

Embarking on a transformative journey, the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) illuminates the path towards excellence in rural sanitation. As we delve into its narrative, Phase I (2014-2019) emerges as a testament to monumental achievements, heralding nationwide Open Defecation Free (ODF) status through the construction of over 100 million toilets and a resolute focus on sanitation advocacy. In its current Phase II avatar, (2020 onwards), SBM-G pivots towards sustaining ODF triumphs while fortifying waste management endeavours, all the while envisioning the prestigious ODF Plus status for villages. Underpinning this evolution is the mission’s unwavering commitment to rural well-being, epitomized by the acronym WOW— signifying Well-being, ODF Plus model villages, and Wealth.

One of the most significant achievements of SBM-G has been the drastic reduction in open defecation, a practice that was widespread in rural Gujarat and posed severe environmental and health challenges. By constructing over 4.3 million toilets and 8500 community sanitation complexes, ensuring water connection to rural households and adopting innovative socio-behaviour change communication (SBCC) techniques, Gujarat has promoted toilet usage and improved sanitation practices. As a consequence, the State achieved ODF status in 2017 and subsequently the ODF Plus status in 2023. Although last-mile delivery remains a challenge due to new households and fluctuating populations, the state has significantly minimized open defecation. A recent OD campaign in February 2024 assessed around 4943 Gram Panchayats and found less than 1% incidence of open defecation.

In my opinion, the true success of the SBM-G lies in its foundational philosophy, which is built on the 5 Cs: Convergence, Community Involvement, Collaboration, Communication, and Capacity Building. These guiding principles have not only revolutionized sanitation practices but have also transformed entire communities. This holistic approach is what sets SBM-G apart and drives its continued impact across rural India.

Convergence

Phase I of the Mission focused primarily on ODF status. However, the second phase is more comprehensive, encompassing ODF sustainability, solid and liquid waste management and visual cleanliness. ‘Whole of Government’ approach alone can give outcomes that are sustainable. Realising that improving sanitation is not the sole responsibility of any one department, Rural Development Department in Gujarat is making efforts to integrate SBM-G with other government agencies, such as the Departments of Panchayati Raj, Urban Development, Health, Tourism, and Education, thereby creating synergies that amplify the benefits for rural communities.

For instance, in Gujarat, the partnership with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) facilitated the construction of individual assets like soak pits, compost pits, and kitchen gardens that would not have been possible under the Mission alone. This collaboration supports liquid waste management efforts while providing employment opportunities for rural residents, thereby linking sanitation with livelihoods. Similarly, the Mission has successfully utilized funds from the 15th Finance Commission and engaged Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) in the construction and maintenance of assets. The success of the Mission hinges on the strength of convergence frameworks within states. Key components such as rural-urban convergence policies and comprehensive state-wide rural sanitation strategies serve as crucial tools in establishing resilient convergence frameworks.

Community Involvement

The participatory approach of SBM-G not only strengthens Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) but also empowers village communities to prepare Annual Implementation Plans (AIP). This ensures the maximum utilization of assets and fosters a sense of ownership among the community. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, this process has multiple layers that need to be carefully managed by implementation agencies. Gujarat has numerous instances of meaningful community engagement, but two cases are particularly worth discussing.

To tackle wastewater treatment, Vedanchha village of Banaskantha district provides a model of community involvement in designing techniques that are indigenous, sustainable, and cost-effective. With the support of UNICEF, the village community conducted a sanitation planning needs assessment and developed a model that integrates elements of Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS) and Waste Stabilization Ponds. Capable of producing 18 MLD (MegaLiters per Day) of treated surface water for irrigation, the Vedanchha model significantly enhances agricultural practices in the region. Additionally, these systems yield an impressive annual output of 6,500 tons of organic manure, encouraging the adoption of organic farming techniques. This comprehensive approach not only boosts agricultural productivity but also fosters a robust circular economy by efficiently repurposing waste into valuable resources. Community ownership paved the way for its success. Buoyed by this success, the State is replicating this in other villages in a phased manner.

Another notable example of community involvement is Gujarat’s GOBARdhan initiative. At its core, this initiative employs a pioneering cluster-based strategy, establishing flexi biogas plants at the household level. A key feature of the scheme is the token contribution required from beneficiaries, which fosters a sense of ownership and promotes better maintenance of the assets. The community has responded exceptionally well, with over 7,200 flexi biogas plants set up across rural Gujarat. These plants convert approximately 131,400 tons of organic waste annually into clean energy, benefiting over 14,000 households. Due to community contributions, this initiative has become one of the most functional models across the state, with 100% maintenance carried out by the community.

Collaboration

For successful fulfilment of Mission’s objectives, it is important to forge partnerships with private sector, CSOs, NGOs and other agencies working in the space of waste management. Rural areas often lack proper waste disposal systems, leading to the accumulation of solid waste and environmental degradation. The Mission has introduced various waste management techniques, including composting and recycling, which not only manage waste effectively but also convert it into useful resources. For instance, the Akhod model, named after Akhod village in Bharuch District, brings together public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders to transform biodegradable waste into compost. This compost is widely used by farmers, enriching the soil and supporting sustainable agriculture. Similarly, in Valsad’s Atul village, a plastic waste management unit operates through a partnership between the public, private, and third sectors, ensuring proper waste management and village cleanliness.

However, such collaborations are not limited to waste management alone. The key to success of this Mission lies in change management and in nudging the community members to adopt sustainable sanitation practices. This requires concerted efforts over a long period of time. Therefore, focussed involvement of all stakeholders becomes crucial. Gujarat is reaching out to all possible partners –government, semi-government, private sector, corporates and other community organisations – whose support is vital for scaling these efforts.

Communication

The scope of SBM-G is expanding, and it is more relevant than ever. Its effectiveness remains in ensuring that everyone from top to bottom shares a common vision and speaks the same language. This unified approach aligns goals, enhances collaboration, and maintains consistency in implementation across diverse regions. Clear communication empowers communities, fosters ownership, and drives the necessary behavioural changes to sustain improved sanitation practices. Gujarat has recently launched “Nirmal Gujarat 2.0,” a revised version of its flagship program, Nirmal Gujarat. The main focus of this program is on continued Information, Education, and Communication (IEC), along with Social and Behavioural Change Communication (SBCC). Through constant nudging, it aims to establish common norms of sanitation that are both indigenous and sustainable. Nirmal Gujarat 2.0 not only bridges the gaps of SBM-G but also facilitates the achievement of SBM objectives in a more meaningful way.

Capacity Building

The long-term success of SBM-G relies heavily on continuous capacity building of stakeholders. Empowering local communities and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to spearhead sanitation initiatives through tailored training and capacity-building programs ensures the sustainability of SBM-G’s benefits. Beyond PRI officials and project units, there is a pressing need to focus on stakeholders such as sanitation workers, SHG members, Safai Sathis, recyclers, and all others involved in the waste management gig ecosystem. During the Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign 2023, Gujarat successfully enhanced the capacity of thousands of SHG members, who have since acted as catalysts in spreading awareness about cleanliness. Furthermore, Gujarat has taken proactive measures to ensure that every Gram Panchayat has at least one individual capable of training others on SBM-G components. This grassroots approach fosters resilience and self-reliance, key components of a sustainable future.

Commitment

The Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen is a cornerstone in India’s journey towards a sustainable future. By addressing sanitation in a holistic manner, it has not only improved public health and environmental conditions but has also driven socio-economic development and behavioural change. As the mission evolves, its continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement will be crucial. Therefore, to the aforesaid 5Cs, Gujarat adds its commitment so as to shape a healthier, cleaner, and more prosperous rural India.

The author is Senior IAS officer and currently heads Commissionerate of Rural Development, Gujarat.

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