WORLD TOILET DAY 2024: ENSURING DIGNITY AND HEALTH THROUGH SANITATION

Miscellaneous


 19-Nov-2024
  • It is celebrated annually on 19th November.
  • It has been an official United Nations observance since 2013.
  • This day has been dedicated to emphasizing the importance of safe and accessible toilet facilities as part of Sustainable Development Goal 6: Ensuring water and sanitation for all by 2030.
  • Aim: To raise global awareness and action to address the urgent sanitation crisis.
  • Theme 2024: ‘Toilets - A Place for Peace’

About Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)

  • Launched: 2nd October 2014.
  • Objective: Eliminate open defecation and improve sanitation infrastructure across India.
  • It has two Components:
  • SBM-Grameen (Rural focus):
    • Household Toilets: Over 11.73 crore constructed.
    • ODF Plus Villages: More than 5.57 lakh achieved.
    • Health Impact: WHO report states 300,000 fewer diarrheal deaths by 2019 compared to 2014.
    • Economic Benefits: ODF villages save INR 50,000 per family annually on healthcare costs.
  • SBM-Urban (Urban focus):
    • Household Toilets: 63.63 lakh constructed.
    • Community/Public Toilets: Over 6.36 lakh established.
    • ODF Status:
      • 4,576 cities declared ODF.
      • Many advanced to ODF+ and ODF++ status.
  • Social Impact:
    • Women’s Safety & Dignity:
    • 93% of women in ODF regions report enhanced security and dignity.
    • Community Empowerment: Fosters a sense of pride and collective ownership.
  • Alignment with Global Goals:
    • World Toilet Day: SBM reflects the principles of global sanitation awareness.
    • Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Directly aligns with ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.