National Conference in Lucknow Explores Sustainable Solutions in Rural WASH Sector

Lucknow: The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation orchestrated a groundbreaking National Conference on Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission – Grameen (SBM-G) on February 16-17, 2024, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The conference, under the theme “A Unified Approach Towards Sustainable Solutions in Rural WASH Sector,” gathered diverse stakeholders from various states and union territories for dynamic discussions on key themes such as Innovation, Collaboration, Sustainability, and Operation & Maintenance (O&M).

The conference became a pivotal platform for an in-depth exchange of ideas, sharing best practices, and exploring collaborative planning in the rural water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector. Stakeholders engaged in discussions on critical issues surrounding drinking water and sanitation in rural areas, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and innovative approaches.

On the second day of the conference, the spotlight shifted to the activities and achievements of the Swachh Bharat Mission – Grameen (SBM-G) program by various States and Union Territories. Joint Secretary & Mission Director SBM-G, Shri Jitendra Srivastava, set the tone for the day with a welcome note. He highlighted the need to go beyond the success of toilet construction and focus on sustaining the progress made by engaging partners, ensuring participation, and establishing mechanisms for program sustainability.

Srivastava emphasized the crucial role of officials at all levels in facilitating regular review mechanisms and gram sabhas to reinforce the importance of maintaining the Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.

Thematic sessions covered a range of topics, including Faecal Sludge Management, Grey Water Management, Digitization, Innovative Practices in Liquid Waste Management (LWM), Plastic Waste Management (PWM), Solid Waste Management (SWM), Menstrual Waste Management, and Innovative Technologies. The sessions featured case studies, best practices, achievements, challenges, and innovative ideas from various states and union territories.

A unique aspect of the conference was the detailed state presentations across all segments. States shared their initiatives, progress, challenges, and successes, fostering meaningful interactions and providing a closer look at the diverse approaches to rural WASH initiatives.

Kerala highlighted its Plastic Waste Management (PWM) initiative through the Clean Kerala Company.

Tamil Nadu shared its experience of constructing bituminous roads using plastics under PMGSY.
Madhya Pradesh presented a sustainable business model for Solid Waste Management (SWM) and O&M through community engagement.

Jharkhand showcased its pioneering efforts in menstrual hygiene management.
Andhra Pradesh discussed the resource management pilot, while Haryana presented its community soak pit.

Uttar Pradesh showcased its sanitation revolution, Bihar discussed the Toilet Clinic initiative, and Karnataka shared its Sampooran Swachhata through PARIHARA and Swachh Sanivara.

These engaging sessions facilitated meaningful interactions among state representatives, enabling a deeper understanding of regional challenges and successes. The conference proved to be an invaluable space for sharing experiences, enhancing collaborative efforts, and advancing rural WASH initiatives.

The event showcased that a unified approach, innovation, and collaboration are essential elements for building sustainable solutions in the rural water, sanitation, and hygiene sector. The insights gained from this conference are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts to transform rural WASH in India.