Drinking Water and Sanitation Department (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti,, today convened a Round Table Conference on Swachh Bharat Mission Rural (SBM-G): Progress in Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi and in the next phase, to work together with ministers, senior officials and 28 states.
Union Water Power Minister Shri C. R. Patil praised collective efforts under SBM-G and Water Life Mission (JJM). He stressed that when JJM is ensuring safe tap water for every rural house, SBM-G gravater is important for management, solid waste solutions and climate-flexible hygiene. “Cleanliness and water are inseparable. Together, SBM-G, JJM, and Jal Shakti Abhiaan- Catch the rain-building a healthy, sustainable, and water-secure Bharat, all of which will help India achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Minister of State Shri V. Somna underlined community participation, behavior change and importance of women and youth leadership. He credited the success of the mission for the joint efforts of states, panchayats and communities, calling for deep engagement of sanitation workers and village water hygiene committees (VWSCs).
DDWS Secretary Mr. Ashok K. Of. Meena emphasized data-operated and civil-centered approaches and emphasized that reliable and local-owned data should guide future strategies. Additional Secretary and Mission Director Mr. Kamal Kishore Son reiterated the requirement of verified dashboard, regular reviews and constant community participation, saying “Cleanliness is never fulfilled – this is a daily habit.”
Major achievements of SBM-G (by 2025):
• 81% of villages declared ODF Plus Model Village
• 91% of Gravater Management System in villages
• 84% of solid waste management system in villages
• Plastic waste management coverage in 67% blocks
• Gobdhan biogas plant operated at 80-100% capacity in 11 states/union territories
• Swachh Sujal Village Campaign and Integration of Wash Course in States
Conference showcased the best practices from states such as Himachal Pradesh (Cluster Solid Waste Management), Odisha (women-led initiatives, Su-Nano e-Vahilys), Bihar (Digital “Kabadmandi” platform), Karnataka (FSTP and Gravetor Model), Gujarat (Women-ODFF model). Technology), and Assam (floating toilets, climate-flexible IEC).
Union Minister Shri Patil appreciated the contribution of the states and confirmed that SBM-G is not just a government program, but a people’s movement, which is aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
