Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, or the Clean India Mission, is one of the most important national campaigns launched by the Government of India. It was officially started on October 2, 2014, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. The mission aims to make India clean, hygienic, and open-defecation free.

Objectives of Swachh Bharat

• Eliminate open defecation

• Improve solid waste management

• Promote cleanliness in streets, schools, offices, and public places

• Encourage toilet construction in rural and urban areas

• Create awareness about personal hygiene and sanitation

Why is Swachh Bharat Important?

• Health Benefits: Clean surroundings reduce the spread of diseases.

• Environmental Impact: Less garbage and pollution lead to a healthier ecosystem.

• Tourism Boost: A cleaner country attracts more visitors.

• Respect for Mahatma Gandhi's Vision: He believed that “cleanliness is next to godliness.”

Public Participation

One of the biggest strengths of Swachh Bharat is the involvement of citizens, students, celebrities, NGOs, and local governments. Cleanliness drives, rallies, and awareness programs have helped build a sense of responsibility among people.

Achievements So Far

• Over 10 crore toilets have been built across India

• Many villages have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF)

• Improved cleanliness in railway stations, airports, and cities

• Increased awareness about hygiene and waste segregation

Conclusion

Swachh Bharat is more than just a campaign — it is a movement towards a healthier, safer, and prouder India. Every citizen has a role to play. Together, we can make our country shine. As Gandhiji once said, “Sanitation is more important than independence.”