According to Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, 75% of India's Villages are ODF Plus
Introduction
India's Jal Shakti Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, recently made a momentous announcement in the country's sanitation efforts. It's a significant milestone for India's Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) Phase II. In this article, we'll delve into the details of this achievement and its implications for the nation.
Achieving ODF Plus Status: What Does It Mean?
An 'ODF Plus' village is more than just open defecation free (ODF). It signifies that a village has not only maintained ODF status but has also successfully implemented robust solid or liquid waste management systems. This dual achievement is vital for the overall cleanliness and hygiene of a village.
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| According to Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, 75% of India's villages are ODF Plus. |
The Numbers Tell the Story
- More than 4.43 lakh villages in India have voluntarily declared themselves ODF Plus.
- Villages across 14 states and Union Territories (UTs) have achieved ODF Plus status.
- Four villages have been hailed as 'ODF Plus Model' villages, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
Leading the Way: States and Union Territories
Several states and Union Territories have made remarkable progress in this mission. They are claiming 100% ODF Plus status. Among them are Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Tripura.
Notably, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, and Sikkim have earned the prestigious 'ODF Plus Model' status.
The Ambitious Goal of SBM-G Phase-II
Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G) Phase-II has set a challenging target – to make all villages ODF Plus by 2025. As of now, out of the 4,43,964 ODF Plus villages, 2,92,497 villages are ODF. This mission comes with substantial financial backing, as the entire budget outlay for SBM Phase II is a staggering Rs 1.43 lakh crore.
Where the Funds Are Going
Some states are making significant investments in achieving this goal. This year, Uttar Pradesh leads with an expenditure of 1214 crore, followed by Bihar at 752 crore, and West Bengal at 367 crore.
FAQs
What is the significance of achieving ODF Plus status for a village?
Achieving ODF Plus status means that a village has not only eliminated open defecation but has also successfully implemented waste management systems, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene.
Which states and Union Territories have claimed 100% ODF Plus status?
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Tripura have claimed 100% ODF Plus status.
What is the ultimate goal of SBM-G Phase-II?
The goal of SBM-G Phase-II is to make all villages in India ODF Plus by 2025.
How much is the budget allocated for SBM Phase II?
The budget allocated for SBM Phase II is Rs 1.43 lakh crore.
Which states have the highest expenditure in SBM-G funds this year?
This year, Uttar Pradesh leads with an expenditure of 1214 crore, followed by Bihar at 752 crore, and West Bengal at 367 crore.
What is the significance of 'ODF Plus Model' villages?
'ODF Plus Model' villages are those that have not only achieved ODF Plus status but have also become exemplary models for others to emulate.
Conclusion
The achievement of ODF Plus status in 75% of India's villages is a testament to the country's dedication to improving sanitation and hygiene. It's a crucial step toward realizing the goals of Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen Phase II. With substantial investments and the commitment of states and Union Territories, India is on track to becoming a cleaner and healthier nation.
