The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was not just another government initiative; it became a resounding national movement. It started with a cleanliness pledge at India Gate, where millions of government employees across the country participated. The Prime Minister didn't merely launch the campaign; he picked up the broom and swept away dirt, setting an example for the nation.

The essence of this movement can be captured in the Prime Minister's words: "Na gandagi karenge, Na karne denge" - We will not litter, nor let others litter. Nine individuals invited nine more, and the chain of responsibility and action spread across the nation. What started as a government program evolved into a collective mission where every citizen took ownership of cleanliness.

The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan turned the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi into reality. Gandhi had always emphasized the importance of cleanliness, and this campaign was a fitting tribute to his vision. Citizens actively participated in cleanliness activities, local communities came together, and the dream of a 'Clean India' began to take shape.

Acknowledging that this was not just about sweeping streets and cleaning toilets is vital. It was about fostering a culture of hygiene and responsibility. Celebrities, sportspersons, and industrialists joined hands with government officials and local communities, showing that a 'Clean India' was a collective goal.

Fast forward to 2023, we must celebrate the significant progress achieved over the past nine years. Uttar Pradesh, for instance, achieved a remarkable feat by attaining a 100% Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus certification throughout 95,767 villages. This highlights a fundamental shift in sanitation coverage, as in 2011, rural sanitation stood at a mere 34%.

Moreover, 14 states and eight Union Territories achieved 100% ODF Plus status, with four recognized as 'ODF Plus Model.' A staggering 75% of Indian villages, totaling 4.49 lakh, declared themselves ODF Plus. These statistics underscore the transformative impact of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

In one of our previous blogs, we raised a pressing concern about the impending garbage crisis in Delhi. Parts of the national capital are staring at a daunting challenge that could unfold from November when the contract of a private concessionaire responsible for waste collection in central, south, and southeast Delhi runs out. Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) officials, well aware of the matter, have expressed concerns about the likelihood of hiring another agency within the tight two-month timeframe. With Delhi churning out a staggering 1,108 tonnes of trash daily, it's akin to witnessing a mountain of waste grow taller each day. 

However, it's crucial to recognize that the garbage issue is not confined to Delhi alone. The challenge of waste management is a common thread running through many cities and towns across the country. Litter on the roads, overflowing bins, and improper disposal practices are issues faced by communities everywhere.

This situation highlights a crucial aspect of India's ongoing journey towards cleanliness – the need for effective and sustainable waste management solutions. It underscores the urgency of addressing waste disposal, recycling, and environmental sustainability as integral components of India's cleanliness revolution.

To secure the vision of a 'Clean India,' the government and its citizens have pivotal roles. The government must intensify its efforts to strengthen waste management systems, enforce cleanliness regulations, and launch awareness campaigns. Moreover, policies should promote sustainability, recycling, and eco-friendly practices.

Simultaneously, citizens must embrace a culture of cleanliness. It begins with not littering and extends to actively participating in cleanliness drives, promoting hygiene in their communities, and educating the younger generation about the importance of cleanliness.

After nine years of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, India stands at a crossroads of progress and challenges. Achieving 100% ODF Plus status in many areas is a testament to the campaign's success. However, the garbage crisis in Delhi serves as a stark reminder that the journey towards a 'Clean India' is ongoing. We must recognize that cleanliness is everyone's responsibility in Delhi and across the nation. We still encounter littered roads and public spaces in every corner of the nation.

To transform India into a truly clean nation, it's imperative for the government to prioritize waste management and implement sustainable policies. Citizens must take responsibility for their surroundings, instilling the values of cleanliness in the fabric of society. Only when every Indian embraces the concept of a clean and hygienic India can we honor the visions of Mahatma Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

Let us collectively pledge to continue this transformative journey towards a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant India.