Introduction

Cleanliness is often said to be next to godliness, and this idea couldn’t be more relevant in

today’s world. The "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" (Clean India Mission), launched in 2014, ignited

a wave of awareness and action, highlighting the importance of cleanliness, hygiene, and their

profound impact on public health and environmental sustainability. As we continue to grapple

with the health challenges posed by poor sanitation and hygiene practices, it is essential to

reflect on how cleanliness can shape a healthier, more responsible society.

In this blog, we explore how cleanliness and hygiene contribute to societal well-being, health

improvement, and environmental sustainability. We'll also discuss how this impacts education

and the overall development of our communities.

1. Cleanliness as a Pillar of Public Health

Cleanliness is not just a cosmetic virtue; it is a matter of life and death in many developing

regions of the world. Lack of access to proper sanitation and hygiene facilities can lead to the

spread of diseases like cholera, diarrhea, and respiratory infections. The simple act of washing

hands with soap can reduce the risk of diseases by nearly 50%, yet many in rural and

underprivileged urban areas lack access to this basic hygiene practice.

The Swachh Bharat Mission has been instrumental in reducing open defecation, one of the

major causes of widespread infections in India. It has built millions of toilets across the country,

improving the lives of countless families. Access to clean, functional restrooms is critical for

preventing the spread of disease, especially among children and the elderly.

2. Hygiene and Education: Creating a Positive Cycle

A clean and hygienic environment is vital for enhancing the quality of education. Studies have

shown that students who attend schools with proper sanitation facilities tend to have better

academic performance. Poor hygiene and sanitation in schools result in high absenteeism,

especially among girls, many of whom drop out of school after reaching puberty due to a lack

of menstrual hygiene facilities.

The introduction of clean toilets, access to safe drinking water, and hygiene education in

schools are key factors in keeping children healthy and improving attendance rates. This, in

turn, creates a positive cycle where educated individuals are more likely to prioritize hygiene

in their homes and communities, perpetuating cleanliness as a norm for future generations.

3. Cleanliness and Environmental Sustainability

Maintaining hygiene is not just about personal or community health but also about preserving

the environment. Poor waste management and littering contribute significantly to pollution,

affecting both land and water bodies. Improper disposal of plastic waste, for example, clogs

drains, causes flooding, and creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, contributing to vector-

borne diseases like malaria and dengue.

Environmental sustainability can be achieved by integrating proper waste disposal methods,

recycling, and reducing the use of non-biodegradable products. Swachh Bharat has also

focused on creating awareness about waste segregation, composting, and reducing single-use

plastic. By involving citizens in cleanliness drives and responsible waste management, the

campaign encourages people to reduce their environmental footprint.

A good example of community-driven environmental sustainability is the transformation of the

Versova Beach in Mumbai. Once a dumping ground for waste, the beach was cleaned by a

group of volunteers led by Afroz Shah. Their relentless efforts not only revived the beach but

also inspired other communities to take charge of their local environments.

4. The Role of Individuals and Communities

While government initiatives like Swachh Bharat have had a massive impact, individual and

community participation is the backbone of sustainable change. Each of us plays a role in

maintaining cleanliness and promoting hygiene. Simple habits such as disposing of trash

responsibly, composting organic waste, and encouraging others to maintain a clean

environment can go a long way in creating a healthier society.

In a village in Tamil Nadu, a unique community initiative led to the construction of toilets for

every household without any external aid. Villagers pooled resources and volunteered labor,

showcasing how local communities can take charge of their sanitation needs. Their proactive

approach not only improved public health but also reduced the environmental impact of open

defecation.

Conclusion

Cleanliness and hygiene are not just individual responsibilities—they are societal imperatives.

A cleaner environment promotes better health, improved educational outcomes, and greater

environmental sustainability. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has made commendable strides, but

the journey doesn’t end here. Each one of us must commit to maintaining clean surroundings,

adopting hygienic practices, and teaching others to do the same.

By doing so, we can create a society where cleanliness is valued, health is prioritized, and

future generations grow up in a sustainable and hygienic world. A cleaner India is not just a

vision, but a responsibility that each citizen can and should take on.