How to Contribute to the Sanitation and Cleanliness of India: A Role in Swachh Bharat

India's journey towards Swachh Bharat (Clean India) has seen remarkable progress, with 55% of locations moved from bad sanitation to 25% that are now sanitized. This progress is not just a testament to the efforts of the government and its initiatives but also the collective action of its people. Each individual can play a pivotal role in enhancing the cleanliness and hygiene standards, contributing to a cleaner and healthier nation.

The Role of Every Citizen in Swachh Bharat

While the success of the Swachh Bharat mission can be attributed to various government programs and policies, it is crucial to recognize that the responsibility lies with every citizen. As individuals, we can promote hygiene and sanitation in our daily lives, starting from our homes and extending to public spaces. Personal cleanliness and a clear heart can lead to positive thinking and a constant effort towards making India a clean nation.

Challenges and Realities

Despite the progress, there are still challenges. Our municipal bodies, managed by elected politicians, often fail to adequately address sanitation issues. A significant portion of our cities and villages remain unclean due to poor management and a lack of infrastructure. Additionally, the sewage disposal system remains inadequate, contributing to river pollution, which impacts our environment and public health.

The contributions of individuals and leaders are crucial. Dr. Ambedkar's intervention in cleaning Nala in Delhi was met with criticism, reflecting the societal attitude towards cleanliness and public service. Gandhi's personal involvement in cleaning streets is celebrated only on a special occasion, highlighting the disconnect between leaders and the ideal of a clean India. It is essential to hold our leaders accountable for their actions or inactions regarding sanitation and to promote the Swachh Bharat mission.

Personal Responsibility in Swachh Bharat

While it is impossible for one person to clean the entire nation, there are steps each of us can take:

Ensure cleanliness in our homes and streets. Adopt the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). Donate old clothes to those in need instead of disposing of them. Encourage others to take part in cleanliness initiatives. Participate in community cleaning drives. Manage green and blue dustbins for our locality if budget allows. Avoid littering and dispose of waste appropriately.

These small actions can have a significant impact when practiced collectively. By treating our nation like our home, we can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.

A Heroic Example: Afroz Shah

To illustrate the impact of individual efforts, let us look at the example of Afroz Shah, who lives near Versova beach in Mumbai. Every weekend, Afroz and his team of 110 volunteers clean the beach, a practice they have maintained since 2015. Their dedication has not gone unnoticed, and Afroz has received several prestigious awards, including a popular quiz show appearance on KBC.

Despite being a lawyer by profession, Afroz's unwavering commitment to cleaning the beach is a testament to the power of individual action. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone willing to make a difference in their community.

Conclusion

Each of us can play a role in making India cleaner and more sanitary. By fostering a culture of cleanliness and promoting the Swachh Bharat mission, we can contribute to a healthier, more vibrant nation. Let us all strive to be part of the solution and work towards making India clean and green.