Dhivya is a determined entrepreneur from Tiruchirappalli. Despite facing multiples challenges by entering into a male-dominated area of work, she channelled her business acumen into a thriving desludging venture.

As a child, Dhivya yearned to grow up to someday become a policewoman. But as circumstances would have it, she could not continue her education beyond the 8th standard. She did, however, even as a young girl have quite the knack for business. She was quick to learn when she started helping out with her aunt’s business, an experience which taught her how to manage books and understand the complex requirements of running a business.

Today, Dhivya has translated her entrepreneurial spirit into a flourishing Desludging business which she runs along with her husband. (Desludging is the process of removal of sediments from septic tanks for households which are not connected to sewers and instead rely on On-site Sanitation Systems).

Dhivya receives desludging orders on her phone, fixes the rate for cleaning with the client. Her husband or a hired driver drives the septic tank cleaning lorry to the client’ house. The cleaning is carried out using powerful hose pipes to avoid manual entry, the waste is then transported and emptied at a decanting station. Earlier they used to do cleaning and transportation of waste between the two of them but now they have hired additional people to help them. She sold a piece of land to buy the vehicle and paid off the amount in installments. Recognizing a viable demand for septic tanks, she also started selling septic tanks, thereby earning commission on them.

Dhivya is a firm believer in the fact that women can and should enter roles which have traditionally only been reserved for men. Despite the stigma and hassles she faced, she is proud of the example she has set through her work as a desludging operator – her presence makes the women whose households they visit for desludging septic tanks feel a lot more comfortable. Through her dedication, Dhivya has been able to build a credible presence among her clients! She aspires to expand her business further by acquiring more septic tank cleaning vehicles. Her aim is to expand her house further and give both her children a quality education.

In Tiruchirappalli, a thriving town in the state of Tamil Nadu, a limited percentage of desludging demand is met by the Government. The rest is being increasingly catered to by private operators and ‘micropreneurs’ such as Dhivya. Regularly desludging plays an important role towards environmental protection and preservation of water quality. Click here to learn more about business models in faecal sludge and septage management.

Watch Tracing the Tracks to hear directly from the champion: https://youtu.be/B30mMDyfQuU?si=f0lD9jfeCtwt12aw

Sulochana Sahu’s story is a glorious example of how we can use diverse skillsets to contribute to behavioural change towards sustainable sanitation. Sulochana Sahu is a Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSM) Call Centre Executive in Odisha’s Dhenkanal Municipality since 2019. She was hired for the Operation and Maintenance of FSTPs by the Jeevan Jyoti Area Level Federation (ALF).

Taking on the lead for effective implementation of FSSM in both urban and rural areas, Sulochana has undertaken a range of activities. She takes booking for desludging requests, allocate cesspool vehicles, maintains and uploads the FSSM service information on the SUJOG-DIGIT app (which facilitates delivery of municipal services) and on Excel sheets developed by the HOUDD, Government of Odisha and creates an efficient process for individuals to access FSSM services. She coordinates with the Municipality and Jeevan Jyoti ALF’s President for grievance redressal and goes the extra mile to create awareness on FSSM services, sanitation, and ODF amongst ALF members and beneficiaries at the monthly meetings.

Sulochana has built an effective rapport with households through continuous follow ups on desludging activities. This not only enables effective monitoring, but encourages households to participate in opting for sanitation services. With mass participation, the FSTP in Dhenkanal Municipality caters to the needs of 3 lakh people and 49 tagged GPs.

She has been instrumental in FSSM service delivery and creating awareness on FSSM among the people and SHG members in the city and rural areas. For her contribution to the FSSM service in Dhenkanal Municipality, she has won various accolades and awards at the state and national levels.

Due to her untiring efforts towards FSSM service delivery, more than 19,923.6 KLD sludge has been disposed and Rs. 78 lakh revenue has been generated till now (until May 2023); and 22 women’s SHGs and their communities have been sensitized. In championing the cause as a determined individual and bringing forth her unique skills, Sulochana Sahu has been able to create far-reaching impact

Married at the age of 18, Madhu lived a quiet life in a joint family in Baldev Vihar, Lucknow, with her husband and three children. She built her life around her family and continued to live that way till one day her husband lost his job. This put her family in unprecedented circumstances with financial difficulties and Madhu was determined to see how she could solve for the same. She and her husband saw a growing demand for desludging in their locality and after speaking to a few businesses in their vicinity, they decided to take the leap and start a desludging tanker business of their own.

The business required heavy financial investment when they started it and both of them decided to invest their entire retirement savings into it with the hope that this venture will give them and their children the security they needed. Despite putting their entire savings into the business, they soon realized that they needed additional funds which led them to apply for a loan of of INR 7 lakh in Madhu's name from a local bank in 2013. The loan came through and thus, Madhu transitioned into becoming a businesswoman.

While the plan initially was for Madhu as well as her husband to run the business, fate had other plans for them. Her husband was offered a job as a security guard 75 kilometers away and keeping their financial constraints in mind, he decided to take the job. Suddenly, Madhu was left to take care of the business alone. De-sludging can be a gendered profession with mostly men running a business in this space across the country. Madhu defied societal norms by deciding to run this business with no help. Her decision shocked her children, her family, and society. However, her husband played a key role in negotiating with her ecosystem to create a space for Madhu to thrive and thrive she did!

The early days were challenging, with employees and drivers not taking her seriously. She handled business inquiries and negotiations over the phone. Maintenance issues, irregular tipping fees, and improper desludging posed additional hurdles. Through determination and a customer-first approach, Madhu mastered the nuances of the business and ensured the timely repayment of the tanker loan.

Madhu's courageous venture transformed her family's financial situation. Madhu credits Population Services International (PSI) India for forming the tanker operator association in Lucknow during the #ATF project. This initiative facilitated private operators' integration into public systems, addressing challenges like tipping fees, disposal sites, and registration. PSI's support during the COVID-19 lockdown ensured uninterrupted desludging operations, allowing registered Private Tanker Operators like Madhu to continue their businesses and support their staff.

Madhu's role in the executive committee of the Septic Tanker Operator Welfare Association reflects her success and acceptance in the predominantly male profession of faecal sludge management. Exemplifying the power of determination, Madhu believes in challenging traditional livelihoods to change societal perspectives and encourages more women to join the movement for sanitation reform in the country.

As the Project Engineer of Odisha’s Water Supply and Sewerage Board, Suryabarti Majhi held with her the key to effective implementation of the state’s FSSM vision.

Odisha’s success in FSSM has been achieved not only due to the political will, leadership, and vision of senior administrators, but also because of on-ground implementation by committed and efficient government officials. Ms. Suryabarti is a shining example, having been instrumental in the planning, site selection, construction, commissioning, and testing of the 110 operational Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) out of 120 FSTPs in Odisha.

In an otherwise male-dominated field and with the FSSM programme being a new initiative in Odisha, Suryabarti has proved her mettle in its execution with her rigorous follow-up mechanism with executive agencies, frequent visit to the sites, providing handholding and technical support to municipal engineers and contractors, and playing a vital role in the Construction Process Management of the engineers in the department. She did all this while demonstrating concern for people and environmental factors. She came up with an action plan to conduct interface meetings and exposure visits for the community, PRIs, and other stakeholders to create a paradigm change towards the construction of FSTPs.

During the surge COVID period, Suryabarti provided handholding and technical support to agencies visiting the ULBs to understand the new FSSM projects. The execution period was six months. Not only did she design PPE kits and other COVID-safe supplies, but she also conducted online, hybrid, and offline skill training for SHGs, municipal engineers, technical resources persons, and elected representatives of all ULBs.

The 120 FSTPs are expected to cater to a total capacity of 2087 KLD to treat an estimated septage generation of 1425 KLD. This would help to take care of 16.9% of the waste of Odisha’s entire urban population. Suryabarti has facilitated and coordinated the visits of national and state officials, UN agencies, and other international organizations who come to study the uniqueness of the FSSM model.

Suryabarti has demonstrated utmost commitment and ownership toward the cause. She sets an example for other women working as government functionaries in ULBs. She exhibits passion, high-energy, and enthusiasm, inspiring other engineers towards the effective implementation of FSSM.

Suryabarti has also played a key role in training the 700 women and transgender SHG members managing the FSTPs. Her presence at the operational plants guiding the SHGs has enthused several SHG members. She truly embodies the vision of the State for safely managed sanitation embracing inclusivity, gender equity, and community engagement.

As a woman Sarpanch of Sujanpur Gram Panchayat, Bishnupriya Mahakud (age 47) set an inspiring example of achieving an ODF+ status with continuous efforts towards making the Gram Panchayat clean and green.

Bishnupriya has made tireless efforts to sensitize all households towards swacchhata and dignified living. She undertook a range of activities to bring about behavioural change, including IEC activities on sanitation and waste management though village meetings, interpersonal communication, door-to-door visits, rallies, cleanliness drives, wall writings, and poster and banners. She has been supported in her efforts by women SHGs, youth, and other villagers. She utilized MGNREGA, 15th FC, and SBM-G funds for the effective implementation of sanitation activities.

Additionally, Bishnupriya created a revenue model for the women SHGs through door-to-door collection of the user fee of Rs. 10 per household. The incentive is Rs. 5,000 per month paid to the SHG members for waste collection from every 250 households.

She has played a vital role in the district’s collaboration with UNICEF and UNDP to ensure WASH and solid waste management awareness in schools and anganwadis. Bishnupriya has been instrumental in bringing the programme to the district.

Bishnupriya is the first woman leader of the village and has ensured an ODF+ status for each village in the district. Her continuous community mobilization and efficient coordination with various departments and stakeholders has led to various accolades for the Jajpur district. It secured the 4th rank at Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2022 at the national level.

At the age of twenty-two, Snehal, a driven and career-focused individual, holds the role of Site-Incharge at the Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) managed by Tide Technocrats in Wai, Maharashtra. From the plant's inception, she has effectively overseen its operations and takes immense pride in her venture within the sanitation sector. Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering, Snehal resides in Rautwadi, situated 26 km away from Wai. Her inclination toward technology and engineering and desire for a hands-on field experience prompted her to apply for the position of Site in-charge for an FSTP.

Initially, she faced challenges such as difficulty in understanding the nature of the work, handling male workers and travelling to the FSTP since it was at a considerable distance from her residence. But with time and tremendous support from family, she was able to overcome all these challenges. With her hard work, she gained respect amidst the staff and has since been successfully managing the FSTP. The initial 3 months of COVID-19 were particularly challenging for Snehal; workers were apprehensive about coming to the site. But with support from the TIDE team, assured the workers of safety. The FSTP has been successfully operational, even during the pandemic.

Besides operating the plant, Snehal has also been raising awareness about Faecal Sludge and Septage Management and its importance within her community. Her family is very proud of her achievements and has been incredibly supportive and helpful in managing her work with her studies.

"If I can do it, any girl can. Working sincerely is the key to earn respect and to get everyone to listen to you. Girls and women should be encouraged to pursue their careers. The practical experience gained will be beneficial in the long run. Receiving the award for best employee of the month was an achievement for me."

Meghna Sahoo is the President of the Transgender SWIKRUTI Self Help Group (SHG) which has secured livelihoods for numerous members of the transgender community and has aided the efficient execution of sustainable sanitation processes.

Before joining SWIKRUTI, its members depended on begging and sex work to earn a livelihood. They endured harassment and especially painful conditions during the COVID lockdown. Concerned about having a steady source of income and being able to live with dignity, the 17 members joined the SHG, founded in 2018 by Meghna Sahoo.

Meghna came to know that the State has made substantial efforts to include women's SHGs in sanitation work as a source of income and dignity. She was inspired to broaden the horizons of these efforts and proposed to involve transgender SHGs in sanitation duties. She devised a strategy for meeting with the government and, following persistent discussions, the SHG was chosen and hired by the government to run and operate the Basuaghai Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP).

This achievement was a turning point for the team members, who thereafter found the Million Dollar Smiles. Not only did Meghna successfully pave the way for transgender inclusivity in the Faecal Sludge and Septage Management space, but through coordination with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and the Housing and Urban Development Department the SHG members secured capacity and technical resource building for the management of the FSTP. Since July 1, 2022, the Basuaghai FSTP in Bhubaneswar has been operated and managed by the 13-member SWIKRUTI SHG. The trained SHG members ensure seamless execution of FSSM services and create awareness about it in the community and amongst various stakeholders.

Meghna’s innovative action towards inclusivity has led to increased access to safe sanitation and has created a ripple effect in the state of Odisha regarding the livelihood opportunities for transgender communities. Until now, transgender SHGs have been engaged in 7 ULBs (Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Parelakhemundi, Nimapada, Pipili, Tusura, and Jaleswar) for the operation and management of FSTPs. By engaging in this work, the members of Swikruti have not only improved their financial conditions but have also gained respect and acceptance in society as professionals. Meghna has now become a facilitator and sanitation champion who is leading and facilitating all visits and training held in FSTPs toward making this FSTP plant a hub for others to learn from and a model for others to replicate.

The SHG facilitates exposure visits of national and state officials, UN agencies, and other international organizations who come to study the uniqueness of the FSSM model. The impact of these exposure visits is wide-ranging, enabling officials to potentially replicate the revolutionary model in their respective states. The Basughai FSTP plants run smoothly and cater to the needs of both urban and rural areas.

Haneshwar Prashad Chandel is a dedicated Operator in the Faecel Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) in Kumhari, Chhattisgarh.

The second of three brothers, Haneshwar attained a B.Sc. in biotechnology from Kalyan College. Due to hardships at home, he had to leave home soon after marriage with his wife. He found work in the sewage lines in Kumhari and worked there for 2 years. Amidst the various people doing site visits during the development of a plant, there was an engineer, working with whom earned Haneshwar the responsibility of Operator at the FSTP. He has now been working as an Operator for 2 years.

Haneshwar’s work involves maintenance of the site, including gardening, pond maintenance, screen chamber maintenance, filtering the sludge, coordination with the FSTP drivers, emptying the trucks and measuring the PH and temperature of the sludge. He also maintains records of the trucks arriving at the plant with details of where they have come from.

Many aspects of his work are difficult. While helmets and masks help protect against poisonous gases such as methane, it is the physical labour involved in jobs such as gardening that become taxing, often leaving him incapacitated for a couple of days. One wonders whether such hardships combined with general taboos cause his family and community to be concerned about his profession. He claims, however, that his community does not look down upon his work and appreciates his profession.

Haneshwar believes that the cleaner one keeps the FSTP, the better the well-being of the workers operating it will be. For him, proper maintenance of the FSTP is the priority and nothing takes precedence over this priority. With his salary, he supports his family of four. He wishes to educate his 2 sons and hopes that they join the family business that he dreams of. With the money him and his wife have saved and with a loan for the rest, they wish to open a tailor’s shop.

Embodying his inspiring values, Haneshwar says that one must do whatever work they’re doing with dedication. He believes that unless you can keep your surroundings clean, nobody else will, and that if you demonstrate hygiene then you can inspire others to follow suit.

Master Book Keeper(MBK) in Niladunguri Village, Kabarapali GP, Jujumura Block, Sambalpur District

Saraswati Bhoi’s story is that of a Master Book Keeper noticing the state of single pit toilets in her village and taking on leadership to make the village have 100% toilet coverage.

Saraswati Bhoi works as a Master Bookkeeper in Niladunguri Village, Odisha, under the Odisha Livelihood Mission and a member of a women’s self-help group (SHG).

During her work, Saraswati observed that most of the toilets in the village are single pit toilets. These toilets are susceptible to overflowing and can potentially harm the health of the entire community. However, this is not what drove Saraswati to take charge of the situation. Her community believed that these toilets will fill up within a short period, which will force them towards open defecation. This fear is what drove Saraswati to take matters into her own hands. She was determined to convert all single pits into twin pit toilets within her village

Such infrastructural change is not easy and requires persistence as well as resources, but Saraswati was not one to be intimidated by this. She first met all her SHG members, mobilizing them and explaining to them why she was keen on this change. She also engaged with the community resource persons (CRP) to discuss the importance of retrofitting toilets. Once she had all key stakeholders on board, she then focused on coordinating with the Gram Panchayat to conduct a Gram Sabha meeting for mobilizing the community. Despite various obstacles, a Gram Sabha was conducted on 2nd October 2022, in which Saraswati set an example and motivated all CRPs and SHG members to take a pledge to create 100% toilet coverage in the village and to improve cleanliness in her community

This pledge led to the formation of Nigrani Samiti to stop open defecation. The team further undertook coordination and advocacy with the Block administration for the release of WASH loans to SHGs to carry out the retrofitting. They also worked towards capacity building for SHG members with support from UNICEF and through ;oans ranging from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 10,000, for retrofitting toilets to make them functional. Saraswati coordinated with all stakeholders and, with the support of the team, conducted a series of IEC activities to sensitize households about retrofitting, toilet usage, and visual cleanliness.

Through surveys, periodic cleanliness drives, and period meetings, the team managed to achieve 100% retrofitting of toilets, i.e. in 105 households in Niladunguri village. These toilets are actively being used by the beneficiaries, resulting in a drastic reduction of water and airborne diseases.

A Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant(F STP) was constructed at the nearby Urban Local Body for the treatment of sludge from septic tanks from Niladungiri village. The village has achieved the magnificent achievement of becoming ODF+.

The success story of Niladungri village and the efforts of Saraswati Bhoi has motivated Nilima Jouda, a Member of Srustikarta SHG working as CRP in Kkarapali GP of Jujumura Block of Sambalpur district to replicate this model, carry out retrofitting of toilets, and contribute towards the ODF+ journey of Sambalpur district. Saraswati was not just a champion in her community but inspired more women like her to take matters into their hands. Without Saraswati, her community would not have the kind of toilet infrastructure that they now have access to.

Neha Sharma is an enigmatic force in the vast landscape of public service in India. An IAS Officer from the batch of 2010, she currently serves as the Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban and the Director of Urban Local Bodies & Municipal Administration in the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

During her 12 years in public service, Neha has served as the District Magistrate in various districts of UP, these diverse experiences have shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by different regions. While working as the Additional CO at Noida Authority, she delved into intricacies of urban sanitation and municipal issues. Her determination and commitment to improving the living conditions of the people led her to her current posting in Uttar Pradesh.

Neha's educational background played a significant role in shaping her aspirations. She spent her formative years in Scindia Boarding School in Gwalior, where she developed a strong academic foundation. After completing her schooling, she pursued her higher studies at Delhi University, specializing in Gender and Space.

Her motivation to join public service stemmed from her childhood dream, which was nurtured by her father's constant encouragement to explore civil services. Although she lacked immediate examples or mentors, Neha found inspiration in observing a woman District Collector in her hometown. Witnessing her dedication and impact left a lasting impression on Neha's young mind, setting the tone for her future endeavors.

Neha's deep-rooted passion for academia, combined with her desire to implement change systematically, fueled her drive to address societal issues. She envisioned leveraging her position to initiate initiatives aligned with her research interests and promote gender equality.

During her tenure, Neha faced multiple challenges, ranging from law and order to development-related issues. Her unwavering focus, however, has remained on women-centric concerns. In Ferozabad, she spearheaded work under the Beti Bachao scheme, emphasizing the importance of empowering and protecting girls.

Neha's dedication to women-led sanitation came naturally to her, and she strived to make a lasting impact. One of the initiatives closest to her heart involved the removal of 3000+ garbage vulnerable points across urban local bodies in UP within 75 hours, through community-led sanitation efforts, which involved the active participation of women, NGOs, and CSOs, and support from Safai Mitras. Round-the-clock monitoring ensured the success of this initiative. Furthermore, Neha worked to introduce innovative assets such as "Neki ki Deewar" (a wall for donations), selfie points, and vending zones, at those points. Neha envisions a cleaner India as her long-term goal, driven ahead by a true people’s movement.

Rajpati Bais, the Executive Officer of Chunar, hails from an agrarian background. His late father worked as a farmer, while his mother dedicated herself to homemaking. With two younger brothers, Rajpati draws inspiration from his agricultural roots, attributing his strong work ethic and collaborative skills to his upbringing.

To broaden his career prospects beyond public service, Rajpati pursued a bachelor's degree in education. Growing up in the village milieu, he witnessed firsthand the social and economic hardships faced by the community. Motivated by the suffering he observed, Rajpati nurtured a desire to hold a public position and actively contribute to problem-solving and alleviating people's difficulties. His inclination to work among the people remained constant throughout.

Rajpati places great value on Swachhta (cleanliness) and has taken proactive measures to raise awareness among Chunar's residents regarding waste segregation and the importance of regular door-to-door collection of solid waste. The citizens enthusiastically participate in these initiatives to ensure proper waste segregation and collection.

His work in Chunar has been pivotal in establishing a comprehensive approach to proper Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM), considering both the demand and supply sides. With support from Jal Nigam and technical assistance from the Centre for Science and Environment, Nagar Palika Parishad, Chunar successfully established a 10 KLD capacity Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP). The formation of a Swachhta Dal, comprising educators, media persons, lawyers, and health experts, facilitates cross-sectoral collaboration to educate the public about the importance of emptying their septic tanks every three years. This ensures safe transportation and treatment of the waste at the FSTP.Rajpati's goal is to make periodic desludging every three years a routine process, minimizing the financial burden on households, particularly the economically disadvantaged.

Given Chunar's proximity to the river Ganga, protecting its water from pollution is crucial. Rajpati recognizes the significance of the FSTP and regulated desludging in achieving the mission of a Clean Ganga. He also recounts his efforts in a campaign on the river bank, raising awareness and sensitizing people about the importance of preserving the cleanliness of the Ganga.

Rajpati envisions Chunar as a pivotal city that will lead the way in ensuring safe and sustainable sanitation practices, shaping a better future for its residents and serving as an example for others to follow.

Yakkoppu was assigned male at birth 40 years back, but growing up they felt captivated by clothes, makeup and ornaments worn by women. They were also drawn to the activity of people applying manjal (turmeric) on their face and body. Through their childhood years, Yakkoppu struggled to unpack their gender identity and their family’s lack of understanding around this made things worse for him. The only person who accepted them for who they were was their mother. Eventually as the conflict in the family became worse, Yakkoppu decided to leave home at the age of 15 and their mother accompanied them. Over time, Yakkoppu identified themselves as thirunambi – 'a trans person’'

Since childhood, Yakkoppu was always keen to be involved in social work and contribute towards the society. As they grew up, they dedicated their time towards helping people in different ways and recently they took on the role of a community toilet caretaker with the same intention.

In 2020, while a community toilet was under construction near their rented home, Yakkoppu and their mother used to safeguard the construction materials. Impressed by their dedication and help, the Sanitary Inspector asked Yakkoppu if they would be interested to work as a caretaker for the community toilet upon its completion. During this time, Yakkoppu’s mother expired, and they immersed themselves with the caretaker duty. Eventually they also came to know about the Thendral Transgender Self-Help Group (SHG) where they truly felt accepted. They also supported other trans persons in their area and helped them join the SHG too, demonstrating how effective the transgender SHG model is effective in the sector.

As the caretaker, Yakkoppu starts their day as early as 4:30 am. They open the community toilet after cleaning it thoroughly and put traditional Tamil art, Kolam in front of the door. They are the busiest in the morning till noon and they stop working at 8 pm. With a lot of dedication, they keep the toilet clean and manage the stock books to ensure the community toilet is financially sustainable. Their only request to the society is to support the trans community and not alienate them. Yakkoppu strongly believes that trans people are capable of exceling in all professions including sanitation if only they are given the opportunity to lead respectful and dignified lives.

Learn more about Yakkoppu’s journey:

Nama, a sewer entry professional, resides in Cuttack and commutes to Bhubaneswar daily for work. Name Nayak’s was introducted to sanitation work by his uncle who is a sanitation worker himself and has worked in providing sanitation services for over 5 years. His work schedule extends from 7 am to 7 pm, with no breaks in between. He avoids taking leaves, knowing that a backlog of complaints would pile up in his absence.

Nama has received comprehensive training in Bhubaneswar that encompasses the operation of different tools and machinery such as grabbers and jetting machines. In the past, the thought of physically entering the sewer to remove sludge used to intimidate him, and rightly so. However, with the mechanisation of processes, manual entry is no longer required. Nama and his fellow sanitation workers, participated in training and capacity building sessions, which have helped sensitize them on the importance and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and checking for hazardous gases before entering sewerage chambers, keeping safety as a priority.

Even with such protection, however, taboos are difficult to surmount. People often speak to Nama while standing at a distance, judging him due to the nature of his work. He expresses frustration that people often fail to comprehend the challenges involved in sanitation work. When he visits sites for servicing, people often view him and his fellow workers as an “inconvenience” not understanding the importance or role of their services.

In the thick of a demanding profession, Nama appreciates the presence of Garima Grihas, a private rest facility that provides lockers, water, and other amenities for sanitation workers to rest and have adequate space to clean up, giving not only a much-needed respite after performing strenuous labour but also acts as a site which helps preserve their dignity. They no longer have to depend upon others for basic amenities such as food and water, nor do they have to travel with a dirtied uniform. Nama hopes that with the continued demonstration of hygiene he, and other sanitation professionals, can be treated with dignity.

Nama holds a deep-seated aspiration for his children to receive a top-notch education, driven by his unwavering belief in the power of knowledge and the doors it can open.

Muthulakshmi, a 37-year old woman from Tiruchirappalli, has been employed as a full-time sanitation worker at a school for the past 7 years of experience. Every morning, she rises promptly at 5 am, and after completing household chores, she arrives at the school by 8:30 am. At the school, she ensures cleanliness at the micro scale: ensuring wash basins, toilets, corridors, and classrooms remain clean throughout the day. Besides maintaining a clean environment, she actively assists young children, particularly toddlers, while using the restroom. She educates young girls about essential menstrual hygiene practices, teaching them the proper disposal of napkins and the safe utilization of the incinerator. She approaches children with remarkable patience and compassion, prioritizing their well-being over other things.

She refuses to feel ‘disgust’ or ‘humiliation’ in performing her duties as a sanitation worker. She regards her work with as a crucial act of care and service to be perceived with dignity and not stigma. The COVID-19 pandemic instilled in her a greater recognition of the importance of safety. She diligently employs protective gear such as gloves, masks, and aprons while carrying out her cleaning tasks. She has a militant commitment to maintaining a hygienic and safe environment for everyone in the school.

The heartfelt appreciation she receives from the school children is a source of joy for her. Being referred to as "Amma" by the children fills her with happiness and a sense of belonging. Her motivation to work diligently stems from her desire to provide for her family, ensuring she can afford the bus fare for her children, so that she can send them to school every day. Her dreams extend beyond financial stability; she aspires to provide a quality education and a better future for her children and offer support to her aging parents.

Through her empathetic nature and refusal to give into societal stigma, Muthulakshmi plays a pivotal role in educating tomorrow’s citizens on maintaining safe and hygienic practices, making her a true Champion!

Watch Tracing the Tracks to hear directly from the champion: https://youtu.be/B30mMDyfQuU?si=f0lD9jfeCtwt12aw

"Before the FSTP was established, the untreated waste was disposed directly into the water, now my job ensures that sewage water is recycled"

From Mannargudi, 35-year old Bharati, holds a bachelor's degree in commerce. However, he could only pursue his job in banking for a short while before he had to quit. During a period of unemployment, he worked as a daily laborer for the construction of a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant. His technical understanding of the plant and its processes impressed others upon completion, leading to him being sought after to become the FSTP Operator.

Bharathi recounts how prior to the setting up of the FSTP, the untreated waste used to be openly disposed into the river. However, with the implementation of Tamil Nadu State Level FSSM Plan, the plant was established. The polluted water caused immense damage to water bodies and surrounding ecosystem. It was a moment of pride for Bharathi, when people who lived nearby visited the plant and understood how it was a better alternative than direct disposal of waste into water bodies. They were quite impressed by the FSTP’s functioning! Bharathi ensures safety protocols and monitoring guidelines such as registering vehicles, checking them for pH levels, removing plastics from screen chamber are followed diligently, wearing masks, handling equipment with care, etc.

Knowing its crucial role in safeguarding the environment and protecting communities, Bharathi feels immensely fulfilled by his job. The FSTP recycles sewage water, which earlier used to impact the farmlands in the area. The Mannarguri FSTP also runs on solar power.Even his family visited him at the plant and felt proud of his occupation. Bharathi prefers this work over his previous experience as a daily wage earner due to the sense of financial stability it has given him. As the sole breadwinner of his family, his chief aim is to take care of his family by ensuring better housing and a decent education for his children.

Resolving to ‘care for toilet more than her home’, Prema mobilized a group of determined women to tackle the lack of safe sanitation in her community.

When Prema got married, she moved to an informal settlement in Tiruchirappalli. She set foot in a small, rented house lacking in one important amenity: a toilet. To her dismay, there was a single, shoddy toilet meant to be used by the hundreds of people inhabiting the neighbourhood. During rain, the toilet would overflow. With no one to clean, it would fester with insects and germs. The unhygienic conditions exposed Prema and her neighbourhood to serious health implications. There was also a deep sense of shame and isolation, the unhygienic toilet prevented Prema from being able to invite anyone over to their house.

Prema, however, refused to accept circumstances as they were. She approached the Christian Missionary Organization, which was constructing a building in the vicinity. She shared the inhumane suffering of her community and voiced the need for a functional, clean toilet for all. While the Priest ensured the construction of a well-made, infra-structurally sound Community Toilet, he anticipated that the maintenance of the toilet would become a challenge. To address this challenge, Prema stepped in to ensure the toilet would remain clean and usable and be a dignified experience for all who access it. She mobilized a group of 12 determined women and together they formed the Udhayam Women's Self-Help Group – responsible for operation and maintenance of the Community Toilet.

Back in Tuticorin, Prema’s family disapproved of her pursuit. They were ashamed, unable to fathom why Prema would want to work at a toilet, of all places. In the last 20 years, hundreds of families have gotten access to a clean toilet due to Udhayam Women's SHG. The women feel proud to state that even today their toilet is as clean as a park and sustained by its own revenue!

Today, Prema’s children are well educated, employed in formal jobs and keep urging her to retire from managing the community toilet. Prema and a lot of the older community members even have access to individual household toilets today. She, however, reminds her children of how they’ve struggled in the past. It has fostered a fiery sense of duty that she feels towards others who might be in the same situation as they were earlier. She regards cleanliness as an issue of the utmost importance.

Watch Tracing the Tracks to hear directly from Prema: https://youtu.be/B30mMDyfQuU?si=f0lD9jfeCtwt12aw

Babuli Nayak is a certified Sewer Entry Professional who lives and works in Bhubaneshwar.

His journey, however, starts in a small village in Nayagarh district of Odisha where he was born and raised. Having grown up with barely enough to make ends meet, Babuli decided at a young age to migrate to the city of Bhubaneshwar for better opportunities to make a living. In Bhubaneshwar, he found work in sewage cleaning and maintenance through his nephew, who is a sanitation worker himself.

The work involved hard labour and had risks and hazards. In addition to which, Babuli had to face the brunt of social prejudices and stigma. People would express disgust, refuse to speak to him or offer him water – since his work required him to deal with human waste.

With over a decade long experience in service delivery, Babuli speaks of his job with pride. He feels that there is no shame in working in dirt and sewage, since after all it is a job too. He recognizes the crucial role played by his work in ensuring the health and hygiene of citizens. However, retrospectively Babuli realizes that a lot more could have been done for the well-being of sanitation workers like him in the last decades.

Over the years, Babuli observed the sanitation sector change in a way that enabled dignified lives for sanitation workers. After the implementation of the GARIMA scheme in Odisha, Babuli received training for 2 days to learn how to operate machines and to also understand the critical role that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays in their safety. After this training, he was formally recognized as a Sewer Entry Professional by the Odisha Government, enabling him to earn more than the minimum wage and send money back to his family in the village. The government also constructed ‘Garima Grihas’ - small community centers exclusively for sanitation workers to take breaks, rest and clean themselves with dignity. He considers his work to be a service to people; a good deed through which he is earning people’s blessings.

To learn more about how the Government of Odisha Government is front running the effort to make sanitation a dignified profession for sanitation workers such as Babuli, click to learn more about the GARIMA Scheme.

Bandi Manemma is a Septic Truck Operator who had always aspired to be an independent woman capable of meeting her own needs as well as those of her family. She tried establishing various ventures but none of them proved successful.

When the Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation (GWMC) approached Bandi with an offer to engage in septic tank work, she was hesitant at first. Initially, she had reservations because she doubted her ability to invest in the business without sufficient funds. However, she overcame her hesitation since she had witnessed several people in sanitation business earning a decent profit. GWMC intervened and provided crucial support by facilitating a seven-year loan, enabling Bandi Manemma to purchase her own septic tank truck. Furthermore, equipped with training provided by GWMC on the proper utilization of personal protective equipment, she soon earned a license to operate the truck within the city limits. Since then, Bandi has cleaned over 36 septic tanks, leading to a notable improvement in her financial situation. Loan opportunities help individuals such as Bandi in becoming micro-entrepreneurs contributing to overall financial well-being and the opportunity to lead a dignified livelihood.

She aspires to see her children receive a quality education and progress in life, when she observes their dedication to their studies and ambitious dreams, it fills her with profound happiness and pride.

Baset Hasda, a sewer worker from Jamshedpur, is no ordinary individual. Hailing from a tribal family in Jharkhand, Baset has spent the last 12 years dedicated to the crucial task of cleaning sewer lines and drains. As the sole breadwinner of his family, he has not only supported his family but also contributed to improving their living conditions through his work.

Throughout his journey, Baset has experienced the realities of his profession firsthand. Every day, he faces the challenges of working in sewer holes, dealing with congested drains, ensuring proper drainage. Over time, he became aware of the risks his job carried. Without adequate equipment, his tasks would take hours to complete, putting him at greater risk of exposure to health hazards, harmful gases, and life-threatening diseases like cardiovascular degeneration and musculoskeletal disorders. Despite the dangers, Baset had no alternative but to continue his job, given that he was the sole provider for his family.

Baset participated in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ ‘Safai Mitra Challenge’. The initiative gave Baset and his fellow sewer workers access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and modern mechanised tools to perform their work. Through essential protective equipment such as goggles, masks, and protective gear, Baset was able to take charge of his safety and effectively minimize the risks associated with his occupation. Through comprehensive training sessions, Baset and his colleagues gained valuable knowledge on disease prevention and proper handling of PPE. Further, they learned to seek immediate medical attention if they displayed any signs or symptoms of illness, such as vomiting, stomach cramps, or watery diarrhea. This resulted in a safer working environment and improved hygiene practices, ultimately contributing to the well-being and health of both the workers and the community they served. The Safai Mitra Suraksha initiative proved to be a lifeline for people like Baset, who diligently provide essential services to the community. With the provision of adequate facilities and training, Baset and his colleagues could now visit numerous locations in a day, resolving city sanitation issues. Not only did this initiative improve their work efficiency, but it also the residents’ concerns promptly. Earning a decent income has helped Baset fulfill his needs and support his family.

A resident of Jaipur, Rajasthan, Phoolwati is a vocal champion for sanitation rights.

Phoolwati lives in a densely populated neighborhood, where the average household unit comprises 10 to 15 members – with only one toilet shared among all members. Some of the households lack even one toilet. Due to the elevation at which her basti (informal, densely populated settlement) is situated and the lack of space, people are unable to construct toilets for their households, despite great need.

In the absence of Individual Household Toilets (IHHTs), the need for the construction of a Community Toilet in the neighborhood was felt. During the COVID-19 lockdown, this need was recognized with greater urgency. Due to high restrictions on mobility, people could not venture far from their homes to access toilets in other areas, they were turned away by the police. Phoolwati was moved by the immense distress this caused her community, who were left with no dignified means to fulfill their sanitation needs.

She conferred with the members of the Single Window Forum and it was decided that the first order of business was setting up a toilet for people of the community who had to resort to open defecation and also for passers-by through the neighborhood. Single Window Forum is a community-facilitated platform, set up by the Centre for Advocacy and Research, that brings together service providers of the municipal corporation and end-users who reside in informal settlements to enable delivery of timely and affordable sanitation services.

As someone who was a firm believer that toilets must foster safety and inclusivity for everyone, especially those who are vulnerable in society such as pregnant women, senior citizens, people with disabilities and adolescent girls, she ensured that the toilet infrastructure is sensitive to the differential needs of different citizen groups. The toilet has helped prevent open defecation in her neighborhood, resulting in dignified access to sanitation as well as more healthy and hygienic environments.

Click here to read on more about Single Window Forum and community management centers instituted by the Centre for Advocacy and Research (a member of the NFSSM Alliance) are advocating for and institutionalizing inclusive sanitation: https://cfar.org.in/category/uncategorized/

Venkatalakshmi is a resident of Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh where she has been running her septic tank cleaning business for over 25 years. A skilled businesswoman, Venkatalakshmi, recognised the opportunity to run a business, cleaning septic tanks and seized it. She secured financing to purchase desludging trucks, hired drivers, painted the trucks to make them appealing, and advertised them all over town.

At multiple points, her decision to work in the field of sanitation has been questioned. People have been quick to label her work as ‘dirty’. She and her team have also borne insults and abuses while disposing of waste – the social stigma around dealing with faecal matter has made these risks inherent to their job. Even her everyday activities of travelling by a truck, handling clients, independently operating a business are seen with suspicion. Venkatalakshmi has on numerous occasions encountered disparaging comments like “Why is this woman doing a man’s job?”

Venkatalakshmi, however, remains adamant in her defiance of such thinking. She refuses to feel disgusted or ashamed by her work, rather considers it to be of crucial importance to society. She has been a beacon in defying gender roles in sanitation-based livelihoods. She secures details of the client’s location, type of septic tank and sends one of her two desludging trucks (vehicles which allow for mechanised cleaning of pit latrines and septic tanks) to their homes. Impressed by her thoroughness and attention to detail, her clients are appreciative of her efforts. She has been recognised by the municipality as one of their empanelled desludging operators, after getting her vehicle registered as a licensed vehicle of the municipality, it has become harder for people to shame and point fingers at her.

Narsapur which is home to nearly 15,300 households has no sewage system; toilets are connected to pits and septic tanks that require emptying when full. Earlier, faecal sludge used to be removed manually from septic tanks and was dumped on the roads in the open, a practice which was environmentally hazardous and undignified for sanitation workers. Venkatalakshmi has devoted over 25 years of her life towards building and maintaining a sustainable business model for the safe transportation of faecal sludge from the containment unit to the treatment plant. It has been a herculean step towards minimizing the detrimental health and environmental impacts of indiscriminate dumping of human waste in water bodies and land.

"As privileged urban Indians, we often take water for granted, assuming it to be a readily available commodity. We don’t even travel somewhere if the toilet isn’t 'nice'.

Aditi holds a Master's in Infrastructure Planning from CEPT University and a Bachelor's in Physical Planning from School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi. She joined the Centre for Water and Sanitation in 2015, leading communication activities and supporting projects related to digital technologies for improving WASH services. With experience in various areas including faecal sludge management, water security, and capacity building, she provides support to different city and state programs.

Aditi recalls that her perspective towards water and sanitation was first challenged, during her time at CEPT University in Gujarat, when she was introduced to WSH during a studio. Her early experiences in WSH during her degree made her question the assumptions she had always had throughout her life. It was due to this exposure that Aditi came to appreciate the unimaginable effort that goes behind making WSH services accessible.

Aditi firmly believes that the need to access sanitation is universal. Using a toilet is a common experience, shared by all, it is an essential part of being human. A core tenet of her work has remained that everyone should receive at least basic sanitation services, human health and dignity must never be compromised. She finds it especially distressing when she witnesses girls being forced to drop out of school due to the lack of hygienic toilets or when families are unable to construct household toilets simply because they face challenges in obtaining the necessary permits. She is persistent to uphold that these challenges should never become a hindrance to someone’s personal development.

As part of her work with the Centre for Water and Sanitation, Aditi has worked on demonstrating how cities have the potential to deliver and sustain high quality sanitation services by employing low-cost solutions. They demonstrated this through models they researched and implemented in Wai and Sinnar. The Wai-Sinnar model pioneered the implementation of citywide scheduled emptying of septic tank service. The success of the models was instrumental in developing state-wide guidelines in Maharashtra. Further, through their involvement with the NFSSM Alliance, they were able to take these guidelines to the national level as well. Being part of a like-minded group has provided greater credibility when advocating for ideas. Aditi finds that being part of a diverse group of practitioners and hearing from people from different states like Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh who have faced unique challenges and maneuvered them differently enriches her understanding of the problem at hand.

In the bustling city of Satara, the Chief Officer of the Municipal Council, Mr. Abhijeet Bapat, has been at the forefront of a remarkable journey. His vision for Satara transcends traditional sanitation efforts and has transformed the city into a shining example of sustainable waste management, while fostering community involvement and empowerment.

Satara, known as the capital of the Marathas, has a rich historical background and a thriving population of one lakh eighty thousand. The sanitation journey in Satara began with a vision: to provide cost-effective human waste treatment solutions that balance technology with nature. Their sanitation odyssey commenced when Satara was declared an Open Defecation Free City in 2014, coinciding with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan launch. However, Mr. Bapat and his team aimed for much more. They focused on natural treatments, particularly composting, to make human waste management both sustainable and affordable. This approach relieved the city council of undue financial pressure.

The provision of individual toilets under various government initiatives and the Swachh Bharat Project significantly improved sanitation and hygiene. Over a thousand families availed themselves of personal toilet schemes, enhancing the city's Open Defecation Free status. The process wasn't without hurdles. Challenges of space and finances were confronted head-on. Yet, Satara overcame these challenges with innovative approaches, such as community-built toilets. The city's dedicated team provided technical assistance and made sure funds were available to people, enabling them to build their toilets with ease.

Satara's commitment to sustainability led to a pivotal decision - the adoption of a Single Window Approach. This strategy streamlined the implementation process by integrating technical and administrative sanctions, ensuring swift execution of Feacal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) projects. Critical components such as technical sanctions, administrative approvals, and access to funds from initiatives like the 14th Finance Commission were harmonized, expediting project implementation. The city council capitalized on this strategy and harnessed government funding efficiently, leading to the creation of infrastructural marvels like the pivotal 30 kiloliters per day Feacal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP), powered by solar energy. Satara's FSTP initiative didn't just offer waste treatment; it provided stable incomes to waste collectors while involving citizens in the process. The FSTP generated income through the sale of fertilizer, contributing to the city's economy. This project became a beacon of progress, courtesy of collaborations with educational institutions and philanthropic organizations.

Looking ahead, Satara continues to expand its sanitation infrastructure. Plans for a 5.5 million liters (about twice the volume of an Olympic-size swimming pool) per day Sewage Treatment Plant and other initiatives are in progress. As the city grows, it will be better equipped to treat its waste and preserve the environment.

Satara's journey showcased the power of community involvement, and the single-window approach for approvals and funding streamlined the entire process. The city’s transformation serves as an inspiring example of how vision and strategic leadership in synergy with the community’s support can be a game-changer in the realm of human waste management and a beacon of inspiration for municipalities striving for sustainable, efficient solutions in sanitation.

Afsana, residing in Budhni town of Madhya Pradesh, is a mother to a 6-year-old daughter and an active community participant. Water and sanitation issues were prevalent in her neighborhood, motivating Afsana to take action. She participated in community meetings and training sessions that WaterAid organized, leading her to work closely with her community on waste management and cleanliness.

A strong believer in communities’ participation as the vehicle for progress, Afsana led efforts to sensitize people on the importance of water, sanitation and hygiene. Her persistent advocacy struck a chord with her neighbors and resulted in greater awareness about WASH related matters. To transform awareness into action, she also went on to collectivize a citizen's group in her neighborhood and was elected as its chairperson.

As part of her work as the Chairperson, Afsana conducted a survey to identify households which did not have access to toilets. She identified 90 such households in her neighborhood and utilized the data to collaborate with the Municipal Corporation of Budhni in building proper toilets for those 90 families and enabling them to access safe sanitation. Additionally, Afsana advocated for a water pump to be installed in her area, and her persistence paid off when the Municipal Corporation fulfilled her request. Now, the community enjoys easier access to water, whereas earlier they had to travel over half a kilometer simply to collect water.

Afsana’s story is a reminder of the pivotal role that women's leadership plays in improving sanitation and hygiene conditions in communities. Her unwavering commitment towards her community’s wellbeing has resulted in a transformative and lasting impact. Afsana continues to work towards WASH in her town and also inspires others to make positive changes in their communities.

Sheetal Kinnar’s journey towards sanitation work is marked by exceptional courage. Born as Chandan in rural Odisha, Sheetal grew up in a joint family, navigating a complex existence as a man at home and a woman in her community. Her life was marred by abuse, harassment, and isolation. For the sake of her financial independence, Sheetal was forced to work with her tormenting brothers who did not accept her for who she is.

In 2005, Sheetal found her true self within the transgender community. Embraced by the transgender community, she renamed herself Sheetal Kinnar and became deeply involved in community work, driven by a determination to empower her fellow transgender individuals. Her remarkable communication and leadership skills eventually led her to contest the general elections in 2019.

Sheetal's journey led to the formation of 'Bahucharamata,' a self-help group for transgender individuals. Starting with modest ventures like producing home-based cleaning products, the group's dedication to community welfare caught the attention of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC).

The CMC entrusted them with operating and maintaining a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant in Cuttack. Through rigorous training, Sheetal and her team learned the intricacies of sanitation management. This partnership not only offered them stable income but also dignified work. Each member now earns approximately Rs. 10,000 per month, marking a significant improvement in their lives.

Sheetal Kinnar's journey, from personal struggle to empowering her community and managing a treatment plant, stands as a powerful symbol of transformation and hope for the transgender community and beyond.

Braving through the pandemic to enable access to the basic necessity of a community toilet, Maya Bai inspired fellow sanitation workers to undertake services with proper equipment.

Maya Bai, a dedicated resident and sanitation worker, has faithfully served the Ganj Basoda Nagar Palika Parishad in Madhya Pradesh for an impressive 35 years. Her primary responsibility involves the cleaning and maintenance of Ward 22, Chudi Mohalla, within the city.

Maya Bai's story took an extraordinary turn when the COVID-19 pandemic swept into her city, particularly affecting the residential area, Ward 22, where her team operates. As the first case emerged in this zone, it was declared a containment area, with strict restrictions preventing anyone from entering. However, the daily cleaning and maintenance of the community toilet in this ward remained a fundamental necessity.

Amidst reluctance from other sanitation workers to enter this high-risk area, Maya Bai stepped forward with remarkable courage. She volunteered for the daunting task of single-handedly maintaining the community toilet. In this critical moment, she accepted the challenge to ensure the safety of the ward's residents. Maya demonstrates how crisis service providers can end up prioritizing the continuity of their service over their own safety. It is crucial for all members of society to remember how dependent we are on them and to acknowledge their role as frontline service providers. Maya’s act of bravery earned her the gratitude of the local authorities and the admiration of the residents.

After 35 years of dedicated service, Maya Bai is set to retire this year. However, her retirement does not dampen her commitment, which is as strong as when she began her journey as a sanitation worker three and a half decades ago. Maya Bai's story exemplifies the necessity of sanitation work, and the resilience and dedication she demonstrated during challenging times. It also serves as a reminder as to how dependent we are on the services of individuals and that the safety and dignity of frontline workers should be a top-priority in cities.

Abhijit Bangar assumed the role of Executive Officer of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) with a clear vision in mind: to transform the city's sanitation landscape. Traditionally, sanitation efforts had centered on solid waste management alone, and rightfully so, but Bangar envisioned a comprehensive approach that extended beyond solid waste because that is not the only waste that cities have to deal with.

Under Bangar's leadership, Navi Mumbai achieved the remarkable feat of ranking 3rd in Swachh Survekshan 2020. The transformation was driven by innovative strategies, focusing on beautifying the city, ramping up Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities, and fostering robust citizen engagement.

Bangar managed to mobilize citizens to the extent that the IEC activities were enabled by enthusiastic citizen participation and included street plays, performances by Swachh Ambassadors, flash mobs, social media campaigns, and cleanliness drives. Bangar is sure to highlight the important role the community plays when saying “The city of Navi Mumbai has always been at the forefront of cleanliness, and citizens' participation has played a major role in this.” The #NischayKelaNumberPahila campaign ("we have decided to be No.1") further rallied citizens, inspiring active participation.

To bolster engagement, innovative initiatives like Swachh Radio and QR-based Toilet Feedback systems were introduced. Automation technology and apps streamlined operations, reducing fraud and accelerating digital transformation. RFID/GPS-based Garbage Vehicle and Bin Tracking System and Septic Tank Level Sensors enhanced waste management efficiency and safety. Bangar recognizes the synergy between technology and behavioral change in sanitation. While technology modernized waste management, he stressed that behavioral change was the linchpin for sustainable sanitation.

Abhijit Bangar's visionary leadership not only elevated Navi Mumbai's sanitation standards but also fostered citizen engagement, laying the foundation for a resilient and sustainable city. Bangar’s efforts spanned far beyond sanitization and focused on beautification projects in the city. These projects, spanning traffic signals, crossroads, water bodies, bridges, and underpasses, adorned public spaces with art installations and LED traffic lights, elevating aesthetics across all 111 city wards. With Bangar’s relentless efforts, NMMC's initiatives reinforced citizen's trust in the government.

Abhishikth, a computer science graduate from SRM University in Andhra Pradesh, was inspired by his parents, both public servants, to pursue a career in the government sector. His desire to make a meaningful impact on society led him to become an IAS officer. With a solution-oriented attitude, Abhishikth undertook visionary steps to ensure sustainable operation of sanitation services.

In September 2019, Abhishikth assumed the role of Municipal Commissioner in Rajamahendravaram Municipal Corporation (RMC), a well-organized city in Andhra Pradesh. Rajahmundry had made significant progress in recent years, climbing from a ranking above 100 in 2018 to securing the 51st rank in 2020. In 2021, it achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF++) certification. His predecessors had laid a strong foundation for the city's development in areas like solid waste management, liquid waste management, and worker safety. Abhishikth wanted to make sure that he built on this foundation, so he identified areas that needed improvement: optimal resource utilization, mechanization of sanitation work, and a scientific approach to waste disposal. He set out to address these issues with the goal of propelling the city into the top 10 Swachh Survekshan rankings.

In 2020-21, Abhishikth spearheaded numerous Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns, building trust between the corporation and the citizens. Young ward secretaries for environment and sanitation played a pivotal role in this unique communication approach, supporting an individualized connection with the citizens.

One remarkable IEC campaign focused on scheduled desludging of septic tanks. Each property received a sticker indicating the last cleaning date and the next scheduled cleaning date. This simple but efficient initiative raised awareness about desludging and even increased its adoption.

Abhishikth also introduced a centralized septic tank cleaning service, ensuring that proper procedures were followed, and the service was offered at reasonable prices, regardless of the size of the septic tank. A tariff was established, and GPS was installed in desludging trucks for real-time monitoring. This holistic approach of bringing together IEC for better awareness, standardization of service costs for better business costs and establishing key monitoring measures, all came together to make Rajahmundry a pioneer in sanitation. This model, well-received by citizens and operators, has inspired other municipal corporations to replicate it.

Abhishikth’s unique mindset of going beyond the city to involve rural areas resulted in the city's co-treatment facility became available to 10 surrounding villages at no cost, furthering the state's vision of rural-urban integration.

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the significance of sanitation, leading RMC to introduce initiatives that promoted safe and hygienic practices. PPE kits were provided to sanitation workers, and awareness campaigns emphasized the importance of their usage.

Abhishikth's commitment to ensuring worker safety was evident through specialized PPE kits and institutionalized practices. The municipality actively participated in the Safai Mitra Suraksha challenge, organizing awareness campaigns, rallies, and capacity-building programs for sanitation workers.

Looking ahead, RMC aims to safely manage all waste generated, with a focus on leveraging institutional structures for sustainable sanitation service delivery. Abhishikth's dedication embodies a vision to make Andhra Pradesh a role model in sanitation. His journey is a testament to the transformative impact one individual can have on their community and beyond. With rigour, he enabled capacity where it lacked and introduced solutions towards better practices independent of any urgent requirements.

Born in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, Valluri Kranthi's childhood dream of becoming an IAS officer became a reality in 2016 after graduating from IIT Delhi with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. As the Municipal Commissioner of Karimnagar, she steered the city's sanitation initiatives, driving transformative changes in the way the city managed its sanitation services.

Karimnagar, a city in Telangana, faced sanitation challenges until 2007 when plans for a comprehensive sewerage system began taking shape under the Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small & Medium Towns scheme. Kranthi's leadership ushered in a well-structured septage management mechanism, optimizing the capabilities of a Sewage Treatment Plant for co-treatment of faecal sludge.

Under her guidance, a City Level Sanitation Plan (CSP) was formulated in 2016, leading to a series of impactful initiatives. These included training of private septic tank cleaning operators and linking them to the ULBs, promoting responsible disposal practices. Additionally, a vibrant awareness campaign was launched to spread awareness about toilet usage and desludging, and operation and maintenance improvements, and an Auto Development Control Regulation process for toilet building approval were instituted, bolstering sanitation infrastructure.

Additionally, Kranthi's team established a 24x7 helpline and WhatsApp service for citizens to register complaints and request desludging services, ensuring swift redressal and feedback mechanisms. With a dedicated budget and comprehensive programs for marginalized communities, Karimnagar is positioned to achieve city-wide inclusive sanitation.

During the pandemic, Kranthi's focus on safeguarding sanitation workers was instrumental. She ensured that all 1300 workers were equipped with PPE kits and raincoats, backed by health check-ups and special financial incentives as a token of appreciation for their dedication. Championed by Kranthi's vision and leadership in executing ground-level measures, Karimnagar has taken big strides in city-wide inclusive sanitation.

Manju Bengaraj is a women’s SHG member whose leadership inspired 2200 SHG members and their families towards safe sanitation. Manju’s story is that of how a community leader can play a crucial role in helping communities envision a better future. Though an FSTP now runs successfully in Dhenkanal Municipality, Odisha, it was not the easiest road. In the initial days of the FSTP construction, there was some public resistance during its installation and limited engagement to run and operate it.

Manju is the Secretary of Jagruti Women’s Self-Help Group (SHG) and the President of Area Level Federation, which has signed a contract with the Dhenkanal Municipality to manage both the Cesspool and the FSTP. In the initial days of the FSTP planning and construction, Manju worked day and night to create awareness about FSSM services, their benefits, the importance of being ODF, and safely managed sanitation amongst the SHGs in her locality through group meetings and periodic IEC activities using leaflets, wall writings, and rallies in the town. Even though this was not an easy task, Manju never backed down and showed courageous leadership to mobilize SHG members to expedite FSSM services to people.

The Jeevan Jyoti Area Level Federation (ALF) now comprises 44 members of 22 Women SHGs. Under Manju’s district leadership, 11 members work in the plant and are well trained in its daily operation and maintenance, including desludging, treatment, disposal, landscaping, composting, etc. In addition, she provides support to the SHGs to improve their financial planning as part of Pachasutra (under Livelihood Mission). This engagement has created livelihood opportunities with dignity for women in these groups.

Manju has been working as a plant operator for 4 years and is leading and facilitating all visits to the FSTP. She has become a sanitation champion, making this FSTP a training hub and spoke model. Manju is a torch bearer for community members and for other women to join the movement towards sustainable sanitation and to make Dhenkanal Municipality clean and sustainable.

Aveek is the Sanitation Mission Leader at eGovernments Foundation. He has 28 years of consulting and business transformation experience in the corporate sector and has spent the last 10 years in the social sector in leadership roles working in initiatives at the intersection of technology and social change. He has led large-scale transformational programs in rural India and Africa. Aveek is an MBA from the Asian Institute of Management, Manila, and a Salzburg Global Fellow.

Aveek advocates that every individual must have the opportunity to access safe sanitation facilities when and where they need it; it is a basic human right. Compromised access to safe water and sanitation disproportionately impacts marginalized communities’ health and ability to participate in economic activity. The urgent need to address this draws him to work towards inclusive sanitation outcomes, his motivation further emboldened when he sees the passion of young individuals dedicating a significant portion of their lives to WSH.

The ‘sheer complexity’ of the sanitation ecosystem has both intrigued and driven Aveek to work in this sector. In the sanitation value chain, he could see different actors, each with a unique role to play – from citizens, ULB officials, private operators to FSTP operators. However, to understand what is really happening in the system, he considers that it is critical to have visibility across the entire service chain, which is currently missing. When data is digitally recorded and analyzed, it gives a comprehensive understanding of gaps at each level. For instance, he says, "there’s no record of how long waste takes to be disposed of at a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant after being picked up from a household. But if we are to ensure safe and timely disposal of waste, we must define a Service Level Agreement and service providers need to adhere to time limits."

With Digital Public Goods (DPGs) being increasingly recognized as a solution, Aveek is working directly with the government in deploying ‘DIGIT’ for systemic changes in WSH. DIGIT is eGovernments’ open-source service delivery and governance platform, customizable across different states and needs. It brings together disjointed parts of the service delivery process through a common platform, enabling data collection and assessing areas of improvement in the service chain.

Aveek and his team piloted the platform in 3 ULBs in Odisha and expanded to 37 within 6 months. To train ULBs on the use of the platform, they partnered with the Odisha Water Academy and identified master trainers. During training sessions, Aveek found himself feeling energized by the participants’ enthusiasm to make a mundane activity exciting through interactive gameification. The participants left with a solid understanding of how to use the platform, inspiring the confidence that a statewide scale-up of the platform is possible.

Aveek recounts that the DIGIT- FSM platform was built after several consultations with the Centre for Policy Research and WASH Institute, helping them bring greater accountability and transparency to sanitation service delivery. In fact, CPR can now utilize the data collected using DIGIT FSM to support the government on data-driven policy making. Similarly, WASHi is looking at exploring ways to embed the digital infrastructure at a national and state level.

To learn more about Digital Public Goods in WSH, read here: Link

Nitin Sonkar provides sanitation services as part of the workforce employed in the Durg Municipal Corporation, Chhattisgarh.

Nitin has three children, two girls and a boy. As the sole breadwinner of the family, he is committed to providing them with a good education and a secure future. However, weighed down by financial burdens, he was finding it difficult to continue his children's education. In addition to his financial worries, he was concerned about the safety of his job too, since it meant handling sewage and sludge regularly, without adequate equipment. This heightened his anxiety.

The Government launched the Safai Mitra Challenge to encourage cities to mechanize their sewer and septic tank cleaning operations, aiming to prevent deaths and fatalities among sanitation workers due to hazardous conditions. Nitin was happy to learn about the provision of PPE kits and their associated benefits. Nitin received his PPE kit, complete with a mask, gloves, and a cap, along with other essential tools to ensure his safety during work. This new equipment also came with a new identity as a sanitation worker, as he donned his fresh uniform. Furthermore, to enhance their capacity, Nitin and his colleagues were provided with intensive training, encompassing both theoretical and practical sessions, on how to effectively use the PPE kits and dispose of them. Provision of Personal Protective Equipment and other safety measures is an essential right for all Sanitation Workers, to ensure that their work is dignified and protected from occupational hazards.

Expressing his gratitude, Nitin humbly remarked, "After the implementation of Safai Mitra Suraksha, I have experienced a great change in my work and personal life. The training program has allowed me to carry out my job more efficiently, and I have also been linked to a health scheme by the state government. I finally feel like I can work and function with dignity in society. I may not be very good with my words, but this has truly been a boon for me."

Now equipped with modern tools and equipment, Nitin and his colleagues can fulfill their responsibilities efficiently and without risking their lives. The ability to excel in their jobs and visit numerous households was previously unimaginable due to the manual nature of their work and the lack of adequate equipment. Nitin's newfound confidence assures him that he can now send his children back to school in the upcoming season, instilling hope and a brighter future for his family.

Embarking on a journey to revolutionize sanitation practices in Chunar Nagar Palika Parishad, Ms. Prathibha Singh, the Executive Officer, stands as a resilient leader breaking barriers and championing the cause of equitable sanitation. Her narrative unfolds as a beacon of inspiration, driven by a deep commitment to transforming Chunar's waste management and mainstreaming Faecal Sludge Management (FSM).

Ms. Prathibha has been associated with the Uttar Pradesh Government since 2007, navigating challenges around access to clean water and sanitation facilities, especially for women. She is committed to working towards achieving a sustainable and efficient sanitation value chain. Leading by example, she shattered gender norms, actively participating in decision-making, capacity building, and educating students on sanitation.

In 2019, a groundbreaking partnership with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) paved the way for enhanced FSM in Chunar. The Technical Support Unit (TSU) established under this collaboration aimed to fortify Chunar's sanitation infrastructure. Prathibha's team steadily progressed in effectively identifying and managing fault-lines in the sanitation value chain before the pandemic hit.

When the pandemic struck in 2020, Prathibha's demonstrated a forward-thinking approach in leadership. Recognizing the potential panic among sanitation workers due to the lack of information, she collaborated with CSE to provide technical support in training and spreading awareness amongst workers. The support also involved supplying over 120 PPE kits to sanitation workers in that time.

Despite the hurdle posed by the pandemic, Ms. Prathibha remained optimistic and proactive. She saw reduced waste from hotels and industries as an opportunity to design better strategies for waste management. Even with a constrained budget, she collaborated with CSE to create communication materials on FSM, ensuring continued awareness.

Looking ahead, Prathibha aspires for Chunar to achieve ODF++ and Water+ milestones. The Malasur campaign will drive FSM awareness, with a focus on leveraging new technologies for occupational safety and health. Undoubtedly, she sees students as change-makers, envisioning a ripple effect as they carry the message to their families and communities, fostering a transformative impact on society. Prathibha’s inspiring journey in the sanitation sector serves as a testament to her resilience, vision, and commitment to creating a positive change in Chunar.

In the bustling city of Sinnar, where centuries of history have woven a rich cultural tapestry, there is a transformation underway - a transformation driven by the tenacity of women who have come together to change their lives and the future of their beloved city.

Nestled in the heart of Maharashtra, Sinnar is a city where people of diverse backgrounds and faiths have lived in harmony for generations. However, like many urban areas in India, Sinnar had its share of challenges. One such challenge was open defecation, which had persisted for years. In 2017, everything changed when the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched, setting in motion a wave of transformation for the city of Sinnar. This nationwide cleanliness campaign aimed to eradicate open defecation and promote sanitation, turning the vision of a cleaner and healthier India into a reality.

Anil Ganpati Jadhav, City Mission Manager of the National Livelihood Mission in Sinnar, is at the helm of an initiative aimed at eradicating poverty in urban areas, primarily through women's empowerment, social integration, and institutional building. Within Sinnar, the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana scheme has been at the forefront of this anti-poverty campaign. Under the aegis of the National Urban Livelihood Mission, the city of Sinnar placed self-help groups at the center of its focus. These groups empowered women to create change, offering training, and support to help them uplift their lives and those of their families. Women learned about financial literacy and digitalization, giving them newfound confidence and skills. These initiatives, as he emphasizes, are instrumental in empowering women and uplifting the urban poor from poverty's clutches.

Women who had previously limited employment opportunities found themselves at the forefront of change. The municipal council recognized the potential in these self-help groups and started offering them work in various projects related to sanitation. This, in turn, improved their economic standing and contributed to the financial stability of their families. The transformation in Sinnar was not just limited to personal empowerment. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan aimed at making the city open defecation-free, and the women of Sinnar's self-help groups played a pivotal role in this achievement. They were at the forefront of creating awareness and helping families build individual toilets. The municipal council provided financial assistance to construct these toilets, changing the way people viewed sanitation in the city.

Sinnar's remarkable journey didn't end there. Over time, these septic tanks were often filled to capacity in these toilets. The women conducted a survey to collect information about septic tanks in households. The municipal council thereafter initiated a sewage management project, led by the women's self-help groups, to process the sewage stored in the toilets. The sewage was collected and brought to the project site. This wastewater was then purified and used for nurturing plants and gardens, minimizing environmental impact and enhancing the city's green spaces. The impact of these initiatives extended beyond sanitation. The newfound financial stability allowed women to contribute to their families' livelihoods. They could afford education for their children and manage daily household expenses. Women no longer had to depend solely on their husbands or other family members for financial support.

The story of Sinnar, he shares, is a testament to the resilience and determination of women, the power of government initiatives, and the spirit of a community working together for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future. Sinnar serves as an inspiration, showcasing the positive change that can be achieved when communities unite to overcome challenges and transform their cities. The success of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan resulted in the city being declared open defecation free.

Hailing from Kandamahal in Odisha, Banita, a tribal woman in her 40s, migrated to Bhubaneshwar over two decades ago and has since resided in Adivasi Gaon. With a strong belief in the transformative power of education, Banita strived to pursue her studies up to the 10th standard. Her dedication extended to tutoring tribal children in primary school during her free time. Beyond teaching, driven by a passion for social change, Banita actively engaged in community development by joining a women’s self-help group (SHG) and a Mahila Arogya Samiti. Her commitment led her to assume a leadership role as the Secretary of her SHG.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Banita was quick to recognize the importance of safe access to water and sanitation services. She was convinced that Water and Sanitation lie at the very core of our problems and must be addressed to achieve a better quality of life. This realization led her to join the ‘Community Management Committee’ facilitated by the Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR).

A CMC is a community-based forum of women formed and facilitated by CFAR and CBOs, and is a critical vehicle for community mobilisation. It is responsible for creating community awareness, raising WASH-related issues, supervising and monitoring the implementation of sanitation infrastructure and services, and supervising O&M of CTCs.

In order to raise community awareness towards sanitation and raise community demand for sanitation services, Banita enthusiastically pursued a comprehensive training program with CFAR. This helped her develop a firm grasp over liquid waste management, especially mechanized desludging services. To register online demand for desludging services she also learnt to operate apps and other online tools. Desludging is the process of removing scum and sludge layers from a septic tank. While it is essential to regularly empty septic tanks to ensure proper sanitation and hygiene, due to lack of proper awareness there isn’t enough demand for desludging.

An enigmatic force, Banita reached out to over 1,000 households and single-handedly scaled the demand for desludging services. Especially passionate about connecting tribal households with water and sanitation services, she utilized QR codes to link over 150 tribal households to desludging services. She actively promotes the Janhit Vaani mobile radio, facilitated by CFAR, to ensure that communities can record their grievances on mobile devices. These recordings are then uploaded to the grievance redress portal of Bhubaneshwar Municipal Corporation, enabling efficient resolution of issues.

Banita's efforts have resulted in helping approximately 300 households regularize waste collection and access water supply twice a day, effectively meeting their daily needs. Her dedication and commitment to improving the living conditions of her community are commendable, and she continues to be an influential force in driving positive change.

Read on: https://www.waterforwomenfund.org/en/news/centre-for-advocacy-and-research-awarded-for-outstanding-contribution-to-city-sanitation.aspx

Tirupathi's journey in the sanitation sector is a testament to how intentional leadership which prioritizes the wellbeing of communities can directly build a safer environment for citizens. In the heart of Tiruchirappalli, the fourth largest corporation in Tamil Nadu, Tirupathi stepped up and played the pivotal role of being a changemaker in the city. Under his leadership, Trichy saw an aspirational growth in the field of urban sanitation.

During his stint as the Sanitation Inspector, Tiruchirappalli City Corporation, he had only one priority and that was the wellbeing of the citizens of this city. For that, he stood prepared to undertake any necessary measures, be it advancing infrastructure or safeguarding the most vulnerable sanitation workers, all in the pursuit of securing the welfare of Trichy's citizens and ensuring inclusive access to sanitation services throughout the city. When COVID-19 struck, Tirupathi's intentions were challenged even more but he ensured that he persevered through these tough times and shone even brighter. Under his guidance, the Tiruchirappalli City Corporation took swift and decisive action. On one hand they ensured that all essential public spaces were sanitized regularly including streets, bus station, complexes etc. On the other hand, they also ensured that all sanitation professionals who were responsible for these cleaning services were undergoing mandatory health screenings daily, ensuring their safety. He also ensured that sanitation workers had access to PPE kits that would keep them safe and he organized training sessions for them to be aware of COVID-19 precautions.

During a period when individuals were preoccupied with their personal health concerns, Tirupathi remained resolute in ensuring the well-being of the city's service providers. Recognizing the vital role they played, he personally engaged with all sanitation workers to convey strong administrative support, emphasizing that their safety was of the utmost importance to the city's overall functioning. He ensured that all departments in the city came together to combat the pandemic, from the public health department to the police department and so on.

As Tirupathi reflects on the journey, he emphasizes the potential for more private stakeholder support and volunteer involvement during the pandemic. Looking ahead, the Tiruchirappalli City Corporation aspires to incorporate innovative technologies for waste collection and safe disposal, marking another milestone in their mission for a cleaner and safer environment.

Tirupathi's story underscores the transformative power of leadership in the sanitation sector, and his unwavering commitment to community well-being continues to drive the city towards even greater accomplishments.

Since 2022, Gangotri has been actively immersed in sanitation efforts through her affiliation with a Self Help Group. Her SHG is responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of the Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant in Kumhari, Chhattisgarh. Gangotri diligently contributes to the plant's efficient functioning through hands-on work in its operation and maintenance. Her work with the SHG, has allowed her to gain access to productive employment. Being able to take home her earnings has resulted in a subtle yet unmissable difference to Gangotri’s life.

Gangotri holds a profound commitment to Swachhta, considering cleanliness and hygiene as the guiding mission for her and her fellow Self Help Group (SHG) members in all their endeavors. With unwavering dedication, she ensures the operational efficiency of the Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) and tirelessly works to raise awareness on a subject often overlooked.

Gangotri goes beyond her duties by educating citizens on the safe treatment of human waste, emphasizing the significance of FSTPs. Her aim is to sensitize individuals so that they actively participate in maintaining cleanliness. As part of her daily routine, Gangotri engages in door-to-door visits to households with septic tanks, enlightening them about the importance of regular desludging—specifically, once every three years. Following her explanation of the necessity for septic tank maintenance, she provides households with the toll-free number '1100,' enabling them to contact septic tank cleaning vehicles.

In her role, Gangotri exemplifies community leadership, playing a pivotal role in guiding citizens through the journey of ODF++, underlining the importance of community involvement beyond mere infrastructure development. Gangotri firmly believes that sanitation cannot be limited to those who work in it but requires the active participation of all concerned citizens. She even ensures that she makes an effort to teach her own children of the virtues of cleanliness and hygiene.

Tejaswini Gaikwad grew up in a small village called Menavli in Maharashtra. While growing up, she was an ambitious girl who dreamt of building her career and becoming successful. She dedicated herself towards her education and was eventually able to finish her higher secondary schooling majoring in science. Her education gave her confidence and enabled her to access the right opportunities to build a sustainable career for herself.

A 24-year-old Tejaswini applied for a vacancy at Sumeet Facilities Pvt Ltd – a firm that was working closely with the Wai Municipal Council for scheduled desludging. (Desludging is the process of removing both the scum and the sludge layers from your primary septic tank, usually with a vacuum truck that comes along to essentially pump them out through the top access lid). Wai was 4 kms away from her village and while Tejaswini was not aware of the process of desludging, she was keen to learn. In a few days, she got the job and was excited for the opportunity.

Her role required her to understand the process of desludging well and most importantly to sensitize citizens towards its importance. She coordinated with citizens who were owners of households where she provided desludging services. She worked closely with the officials from Wai Municipal Council and with the field staff who would manage the machinery for desludging, to ensure services reached citizens timely. It filled her with pride when women-only households felt comfortable that she was supervising the desludging process for their homes.

Her family is proud of her for being the ambitious and driven woman that she grew up to be and believe that she enables crucial services for the society. Today, Tejaswini not only overlooks desludging for most households in Wai but has also played an important in ensuring smooth delivery of desludging services by managing bills, reporting and documenting her work with the municipality.

In the heart of Chhattisgarh beats the story of Dr. Ayyaj Tamboli, an IAS officer with a stethoscope, weaving transformative change across tribal lands. His journey from medicine to administration reveals a tapestry of initiatives spanning healthcare, sanitation, waste management, and environmental conservation. But behind each policy, each intervention, lies his thoughtfulness to seek solutions and put into motion actions that can solve for systemic challenges that communities have faced for years.

A young doctor turned IAS officer, Ayyaj's motivation stemmed from both personal inspiration and a profound desire to serve beyond the confines of a clinic. Motivated by a senior who ventured into civil services, Dr. Ayyaj treads a path that traverses the regions of Bastar and Bijapur, both of which are areas of Naxal dominance. His journey is driven by the resolve to cater not just to a small section of society, but to the larger community at large. Dr. Ayyaj believes in the ethos of 'Kung Fu Panda' - believing in destiny and finding peace in impactful actions.

Dr. Ayyaj Tamboli's innovative approach lies in his fusion of medical expertise with administrative prowess. His pioneering work integrates healthcare and urban development, creating a unique bridge between the two domains. From mobile medical units reaching slum dwellers to the introduction of discounted generic medicines, his initiatives merge healthcare accessibility with urban planning. Additionally, Dr. Tamboli has also extended his focus and work towards environmental preservation, knowing its impact on public health. Within this stream of work, he delved into urban lake policies, focusing on revitalizing water bodies, and steering the state towards being 'Water Plus' which required towns to treat its wastewater successfully. He also pioneered initiatives like bioswales, urban lake policies, and water body regeneration. Ayyaj understood that progress was not just about implementing policies but also fostering community engagement and sustainability.

In the realm of urban sanitation, his focus on lake rejuvenation in Raipur stood out as a pivotal and transformative initiative. His strategy was multifaceted, commencing with the formulation of an Urban Lake Policy. This policy aimed to establish technical guidelines for managing and restoring urban lakes, fostering an interconnected network of water bodies within cities. Owing to this, over 800 acres of new lakes emerged - a tangible achievement in reclaiming valuable water resources. He also orchestrated strategic measures to revive existing water bodies. Implementation of stop dams along urban streams regulated flow and reduced oxygen biological demand. He also spearheaded extensive plantation along these waterways, combating pollution and enhancing ecological equilibrium.

The impact cascaded beyond visual improvements. Groundwater recharge, a critical concern in urban areas facing water stress, experienced a significant boost in Raipur due to these rejuvenation efforts. Techniques such as pond deepening and diversion of pollutants fortified water security, paving the way for sustainable urban water management. Tamboli's approach was steeped in an understanding of the cultural essence of lakes in Chhattisgarh showing the need for local leaders who can take into account local contexts before applying solutions. These water bodies weren't just scenic; they were integral to local life - serving as bathing spots, sources of cattle drinking water, and even supplying potable water. This cultural link fortified the urgency of their restoration. This holistic vision reshaped urban sanitation by integrating cultural significance, environmental preservation, and practical sustainability. Another issue under sanitation was that of open defecation which he tackled through a holistic approach of implementation of individual household latrines and community toilets, coupled with ensuring adequate water availability, recognizing that infrastructure without essential resources like water wouldn't yield desired results.

Another standout initiative spearheaded by Dr. Tamboli is the emphasis on cow dung manure, converting it into compost and making it economically viable for farmers, aligning with the idea of making villages and Nagar Panchayats 'gobar-dhan' enabled. This strategy was driven by the principle of circular economy and ensuring communities are utilizing the waste they generate. He, thus, turned cow dung into a revenue source, making streets dung-free and promoting organic composting. His approach to waste management was innovative, introducing a self-help group-based model for collection, segregation, composting, and selling of non-compostable waste. Cities like Ambikapur became role models in this decentralized waste management, fostering community involvement and employment generation.

Overall, Ayyaj Tamboli's journey in urban sanitation and development reflected a commitment to creating sustainable change, integrating healthcare, waste management, and environmental conservation for the betterment of communities in Chhattisgarh. Most of the solutions he spearheaded can be implemented across geographies if his peers were inspired by his efforts. His story is more than a recollection of achievements - it's a beacon of possibility within public service, a journey intertwined with the lives he touches, the problems he embraces, and the solutions he dares to create.

In 2019, Mr. Subhankar Mohanty assumed the role of the Deputy Commissioner of Sambalpur Municipal Corporation in Odisha. He came into this role with great zeal and enthusiasm, eager to gain a deeper understanding of its challenges and implement impactful and innovative solutions. Since then, Mr. Mohanty has not only been able to bring in efficient governance, he has also ensured that the most vulnerable of his city’s service providers are prioritized. Before Subhankar’s appointment, the Corporation faced multiple administrative changes, placing significant responsibility on his shoulders. When he came in, he saw that sanitation emerged as a priority for the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation, presenting unique challenges in service quality and worker safety. As the Nodal Officer for sanitation, he took charge of the Corporation's daily operations, overseeing sanitation activities, grievance management, tax collection, and COVID-related duties. This helped him understand the local challenges in the sector better which helped him bring in effective solutions.

With a citizen-first approach, he introduced a monitoring mechanism allowing citizens to message their grievances to the Municipal Corporation via WhatsApp, revolutionizing accessibility for the citizens and ensuring that governance bodies have better visibility of the problem areas. Harnessing the power of social media, he addressed citizens' concerns promptly, showcasing his commitment to efficient governance.

As the next step, Subhankar also took proactive measures to ensure sanitation worker safety during the pandemic. He organized regular training sessions on occupational hazards for the workers and provided safety kits to sanitation workers. Collaborating with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), he initiated awareness campaigns on waste management, emphasizing community involvement and leading by example.

"Sanitation and cleanliness are among the humblest of civic virtues, and it is easy to underestimate their significance," emphasized Mr. Mohanty, recognizing the fundamental role of sanitation in community well-being.

Looking ahead, Subhankar envisions continuing his service to Sambalpur, tackling sanitation challenges with innovative ideas. His approach, rooted in citizen participation, sets a precedent for other cities to follow.

Subrata Chakraborty, a Senior Programme Manager in the Water Programme at CSE, began his journey from the bustling urban streets of Kolkata. A Master's degree in economics in 1999 marked the start of Subrata’s career in the social development sector. In his early years he was working with an NGO in eastern India, primarily focusing on education and integration. As time passed, he ventured into rural development, working with the Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Development Departments. These initial experiences offered him an eye-opening realization about the disparities in accessing clean water and sanitation between urban and rural areas.

Growing up in Kolkata, Subrata assumed that amenities like clean drinking water and proper sanitation were available for most citizens. However, his perspective shifted drastically once he started working in the sector and moved to rural areas where these basic necessities were scarce. The experience of witnessing the challenges people faced in rural communities left an indelible mark on Subrata. He spent the next 11 years dedicated to improving sanitation and water resources. These efforts allowed him to understand the complex challenges of sanitation, including issues related to toilets, clean water, and wastewater management. His work in areas grappling with problems like arsenic contamination, high salinity, and inadequate sanitation facilities led to profound insights and motivation.

In 2016, Subrata transitioned to becoming a consultant at the World Bank, where he played a pivotal role in supporting the governments of West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Haryana in implementing sanitation initiatives. Throughout his journey, Subrata has collected anecdotes that shed light on the behavioral aspects of sanitation. He shared a story from 2017 when he was working in a village in Purulia, West Bengal. Subrata assumed that toilet usage would solve challenges of privacy that rural communities have faced due to open defecation. Hence, to promote toilet usage, Subrata had encouraged the installation of doors for privacy. However, he was surprised to discover that the villagers had placed steel see-through grills on the toilet cubicles instead of solid doors. Recognizing this disparity, it became imperative for him not only to gain a deeper understanding of their challenges, rooted in systemic inequalities, but also to initiate conversations with them. Addressing concepts of rights and privacy became crucial in empowering these communities to lead improved lives. 

His journey from integrated village development to the sanitation sector was marked by his vision for a holistic approach to sanitation where he broadened his focus to include fecal sludge management, greywater management, blackwater management, and solid waste management, recognizing that sanitation extended far beyond just building toilets. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted Subrata to return to Kolkata and take on a new opportunity with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). At CSE, he leads the Water Programme, a position that allowed him to make an impact not only on sanitation but also water management, lake rejuvenation, and solid waste management. Subrata's work at CSE underscores the holistic approach to sanitation he has consistently advocated for.

Subrata emphasizes 3 key aspects to inclusive sanitation. First, he believes that sanitation should be accessible to all people, irrespective of the marginalization they face from society and their communities. Second, he stressed on the importance of ensuring equitable and affordable services. The economics of pricing for various sanitation services was a significant consideration. Finally, Subrata highlighted the interconnectedness of sanitation with broader development goals, including water management, climate initiatives, and employment generation under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

As part of CSE, Subrata also got the opportunity to be a part of the the National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (NFSSM) Alliance. He found the alliance to be a community of like-minded individuals who come together to address common and complex challenges in the sanitation sector. He appreciates the culture of mutual learning and shared advocacy tools developed by the Alliance. He recalls his experiences working with government officials from Odisha and Tamil Nadu. These interactions allowed him to coordinate efforts with organizations like the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, to promote collaborative learning. This collaboration extended to supporting government officials from different states in their visits. 

Subrata's vision for the sanitation sector is to address the challenge of sustaining sanitation infrastructure and ensure that the institutional and regulatory frameworks are strengthened. He aims to enhance people's participation and build a robust regulatory structure to make the infrastructure operationally sustainable. Subrata Chakraborty's journey in the sanitation sector is a testament to his commitment and the transformative power of holistic approaches to address India's sanitation challenges. His work at CSE and contributions to the NFSSM Alliance continue to drive positive change in the field of sanitation.

Kavita Wankhade, Head - Practice (Governance & Services) & Associate Dean - School of Systems and Infrastructure, works at the Indian Institute of Human Settlements, a national education institution committed to the equitable, sustainable, and efficient transformation of Indian urban settlements. She has worked as a researcher, project manager and educator. A strong advocate of inclusive planning, Kavita’s work specifically focuses on the overall wellbeing of sanitation workers, looking at their occupational safety, welfare, health, and livelihoods. 

She believes inclusive sanitation embodies the principle of "Leaving no one behind," ensuring safe sanitation not only for the public, but also for sanitation workers. Kavita has been driven by an overarching endeavour to bridge the academia-industry divide and foster a holistic understanding of urban development challenges and solutions. In her 17+ years of practice, Kavita has witnessed a positive shift in the sector's priorities where the focus has transitioned from merely achieving access, to a comprehensive approach, with a welcome emphasis on the "entire sanitation value chain". She believes that this shift has also embraced multifaceted and intersectional solutions, fostering a broader perspective on inclusion, which encompasses the urban poor, gender dynamics, and sanitation worker welfare.

In her capacity as the Project Director of Tamil Nadu Urban Sanitation Support Programme (TNUSSP), she has been supporting the state of Tamil Nadu to scale up Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) across 649 urban local bodies and implement City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) at Trichy, focusing on inclusive sanitation service delivery for all. Notably, TNUSSP influenced the Government of Tamil Nadu to enhance governance mechanisms by amending the Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies Act to include a chapter on Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) and revise operative guidelines based on on-ground evidence. TNUSSP has also been well known for its remarkable Behaviour Change and Communication (BCC) Campaign for FSM in Tamil Nadu - ‘Kakkaman’, a friendly character aiming to reposition sanitation as an aspirational topic for all stakeholders in the state. Besides these innovative initiatives, capacity building of stakeholders, behavior change, and communication efforts have been key elements in their contributions. Kavita's work in TNUSSP has successfully demonstrated various models for inclusive sanitation, making a substantial impact on the sector. 

She appreciates the NFSSM Alliance for allowing her to stay connected with sector professionals through meetings, convenings, and conferences, fostering solidarity and cross-learning. Kavita has actively contributed to this national alliance where she has facilitated learning through exposure visits and ensured that she shared the Tamil Nadu model with other states in the Alliance. 

Kavita's aspirations for the sector and the Alliance are aligned with the mission of scaling safe and inclusive sanitation to all cities and towns in India. Her vision encompasses the dream of making inclusive sanitation a reality for all, ensuring that no one is left behind. 

Jojo Mehra, a seasoned professional in the technology space, embarked on his journey during the nascent days of the internet in India, pioneering digital start-ups like rediff.com and Yoomedia Plc. and co-founded a shared accommodation platform and an HR-Tech startup. His foray into the development sector began only around 8-9 years ago, when his curiosity led him to explore how digital technologies could be harnessed to address societal challenges. He began to immerse himself in understanding the complex challenges of the society and the potential to leverage technology for effective solutions. This journey took him through some pro bono work within the development sector, and a return to school for further knowledge where he pursued a master's programme in Technology Governance and Digital Transformation from the Ragnar Nurkse Department of Innovation and Governance at Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia). 

Jojo recognises the growing appreciation of the power of digital public infrastructure in India and its relevance across various sectors. He believes that the sanitation sector is poised for transformation through digital public infrastructure, and he is determined to drive this change. Jojo’s involvement in the sanitation sector was kick-started by his work at eGov Foundation, a philanthropic mission that creates open digital infrastructure and ecosystems, to enable city administrations to deliver services that are accessible, affordable, and inclusive. Their approach involves leveraging digital public infrastructure, building state capacity, and catalyzing market ecosystems to address complex challenges within the sanitation sector. Over the past few years, the sector has witnessed the expansion of their work. At a crucial point, eGov Foundation launched the DIGIT Platform which was meant to enable good service delivery by engaging with all key stakeholders including citizens, government employees, vendors, administrators and policy makers to collaborate and exchange information in real time. The platform was taken to Odisha for faecal sludge management as part of the ‘Sustainable Urban services in a Jiffy by Odisha Government (SUJOG) program. Their current focus is on catalyzing a nationwide scale-up of this open-source platform by collaborating with multiple partners in the ecosystem.

He emphasizes the collaborative nature of this space, where multiple stakeholders come together to address various aspects of sanitation. Inclusivity, in his view, necessitates collaboration across multiple dimensions to make safe sanitation easily accessible to all. Being part of the NFSSM Alliance has been an enlightening experience for Jojo. He appreciates the energy and dedication that different individuals and organizations bring to the sanitation sector. He particularly mentions the pivotal role played by the WASH Institute, whose interactions were instrumental in shaping his understanding of sanitation and influencing his approach to solving related challenges.

Jojo's journey in the digital realm has transitioned into a quest for inclusive sanitation, driven by the goal of leaving no one behind. His aspirations for the sector and the NFSSM Alliance include catalyzing a nationwide transformation in sanitation by leveraging digital infrastructure, creating a future where safe and sustainable sanitation services are easily accessible to all.

In the heart of Satara, within Maharashtra's vibrant tapestry, an unassuming yet impactful revolution took root - a story anchored in sanitation's unsung champion: the toilet. Sagar Badekar, a Health Inspector, embarked on a journey that transcended waste management, weaving together access to toilets and communal health into a symphony of progress.

Sagar's journey unfolds against Satara's evolving landscape, mirroring its growth, challenges, and the pressing issue of waste management. His passion for communal welfare sprang from firsthand experiences as a sanitation worker. Progressing from this role to Health Officer and later to Health Inspector, driven by higher education and commitment, Sagar saw how complex challenges in the city of Satara proved to be a hindrance to delivering important services to its citizens. It was during this time that his conviction about toilets being the cornerstone of sanitation service delivery to the most vulnerable grew stronger. 

The burgeoning population in Satara, growing from a modest city to one bustling with over two and a half lakhs of residents, resulted in a parallel surge in waste generation. This surge stressed the city's waste management and health systems, spotlighting the mounting waste crisis accompanying rapid urbanization. 

The Satara City Municipal Council, securing CSR funding, established a Sewage Processing Center at the Songaon Garbage Depot. Employing modern technology, this facility operates a faecal sludge desludging unit, facilitating comprehensive sewage management across diverse city zones. One such zone encompasses slum areas, constrained by financial barriers that limit access to essential services like desludging. Here, the Municipal Council initiated a pilot program offering free sewage pumping every three years. This alleviates financial burdens on residents, aiming for equitable health service distribution. Sanitrack, an app for daily data recording, is used to monitor this pilot zone, storing sewage data accessible via a dashboard. 

Another key initiative involves converting sewage into fertilizer, delighting local villagers. Previously contaminating water sources and impacting both livestock and people's health, sewage now sees utilization thanks to innovative projects by the Satara Nagar Parishad. Furthermore, the Council's initiatives, including expanding sewage processing projects and introducing innovative mechanisms like the dewatering unit, reflect a proactive approach to manage sewage effectively amidst projected population growth. 

Sagar's narrative unveiled strides taken by the Satara Municipal Council in erecting sewage processing plants and promoting toilet construction. Government subsidies of Rs. 12,000/- coupled with an additional Rs. 5,000/- from the Council enable households to construct Individual Household Latrines (IHL), under the Swachh Survekshan Mission, combating open defecation and preserving dignity and health. 

Sagar also mentions that Satara's waste management was not a lonesome one. It flourished through strategic collaborations with all important stakeholders. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) became pivotal in handling waste and educating communities about the importance of sanitation health facilities, bridging educational disparities. Their integration catalyzed community engagement for toilet construction, highlighting SHGs' transformative impact on sanitation, livelihoods, and economic stability. 

"Toilets empower communities," stresses Sagar, highlighting the broader impact beyond infrastructure. As Satara steers towards better waste management, Sagar envisions a future where waste is managed, cities thrive, and every citizen's right to health and sanitation is honored.

Kolhapur, situated in Maharashtra, India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The region is characterized by a mix of urban and rural areas, with a vibrant community that values its cultural roots while embracing modernity. The city has seen rapid urbanization and faces challenges typical of growing urban centers with a fast-growing population, including infrastructure development, waste management, and sanitation facilities. 

Dr. Vijay Patil, the Chief Health Inspector at Kolhapur Municipal Corporation, stands at the forefront of a sanitation revolution, placing household toilets at the center of his initiatives. His journey within the Health Department has helped him recognize and reflect on the transformative power of toilets. Throughout his tenure, he has observed a significant shift in sanitation practices and the challenges that exist around them. Initially, the focus was on building public toilets to solve the problem of access to sanitation services. However, considering inherent risks around spread of diseases continued to persist, owing to issues of overcrowding and a lack of individual maintenance, the discourse shifted towards individual household toilets.

Dr. Patil has been spearheading this paradigm shift from communal sanitation solutions to personalized household toilets, advocating for public health, hygiene, and dignity for all. The challenges of limited urban space and community opposition to building individual toilets led to innovative collaborations with architects and NGOs. Together, they devised space-saving models and unique septic tank designs, enabling construction even in tight city spaces. The strategy was not just about providing toilets; it involved modifying houses, connecting drainage lines, and ensuring that the most marginalized urban poor had access to the best services in cities. The Corporation also adopted a participatory model involving self-help groups and local communities in the design and implementation process to ensure beneficiaries felt a strong sense of ownership towards the solutions being implemented. 

With the aim to promote inclusive sanitation, eliminate economic barriers and enable more families to afford and access proper sanitation, the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation waived drainage connection fees for households constructing personal toilets, emphasizing the corporation's commitment to societal welfare. Another crucial aspect was the introduction of scheduled desludging programs monitored through the Sanitrack app. This technological intervention ensured timely maintenance and waste disposal from septic tanks, reducing dependence on citizens and enhancing the sustainability of the sanitation system. One of the pivotal aspects of the success of these toilets was the involvement of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in program delivery which helped in fostering community participation. These groups not only facilitated financial aid transfer from the government to citizens but also served as motivational pillars, encouraging widespread adoption and accelerating the construction of personal toilets. 

Looking ahead, Dr. Patil envisions a city completely devoid of public toilets, emphasizing the hygiene and sustainability benefits of individual household sanitation units. His vision aims for 100% household coverage with personal toilets, creating a healthier and more dignified community who has access to their own privacy. His efforts have significantly improved public health, with reduced spread of diseases, improved hygiene practices, enhanced public health and the empowerment of women and vulnerable groups.

Dilip Kumar Mohanty, currently serving as the Executive Officer in Jatni Municipality, Khurda district, Odisha, embarked on his government service journey in 1989. His remarkable career spans over three decades, marked by challenging assignments which required him to think innovatively keeping the local context and the communities at the center of all solutions he implemented. One of his most prominent posting being the one in Paradip Municipality, Odisha, where he played a crucial role in transforming the way Paradip managed its waste.

Dilip held the position of the Executive Officer in Paradip from September 2015 to September 2020. During this time, the town was plagued by pollution driven by lack of disposal and treatment systems in place. Paradip had a diverse population which included daily wage earners and migrant workers who did not have access to optimal sanitation and hygiene services. Mohanty identified this challenge as an opportunity to transform Paradip into a cleaner and greener city. He initiated a Door to Door (D2D) garbage collection and segregation program. This program adopted a decentralized approach in collection and segregation allowing communities to have more control over their health and environment. As always with citizen-driven solutions, Dilip faced strong reluctance from the people of Paradip. To combat the same, he engaged the entire municipal workforce to raise awareness and drive behavioral change among the town's residents.

Aiming to carry his learnings into safer sewage handling, Mohanty adopted a decentralized approach to educating citizens, creating a chain system where municipal officials motivated sanitation workers and ward officers, who, in turn, engaged with the local populace. This holistic and multi-stakeholder approach ensured a more effective outreach, which in turn, enabled better impact.

Dilip was also a pioneer in implementing the state’s 'Mo Khata' initiative which addressed solid waste segregation and disposal, pioneering sustainable waste management techniques that significantly reduced the burden on landfills. This project's success extended beyond Paradip, earning recognition from the Chief Minister and attracting Executive Officers and sanitation teams from 113 other Urban Local Bodies for learning.

Dilip is a strong believer and endorser of community involvement and believes that the most effective solutions ensure community driven implementation. With this philosophy at the epicenter, Dilip trusts and recognizes the efficiency embedded in work by self-help groups (SHGs). The 'Mo Khata' project is now managed by women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under Mission Shakti, with support from the Urban Management Centre (UMC), a member of the NFSSM Alliance. These SHGs, comprised of waste pickers and transgender individuals, operate and maintain the facilities. The project's success has prompted its expansion to other concerned departments, creating outlets that sell organic manure to support the Municipality's finances.

Transferred to Jatni Municipality in September 2020, Mohanty continued his exceptional work. Mohanty's future goals include integrating sanitation development into interconnected drain systems, optimizing Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) operations, establishing smart parks, and creating model water bodies in Jatni.

Asha Pradhan is a resident of Ward No. 9 of the Budhni Nagar Parishad. Her husband, Basant Pradhan, works for a private company, and their elder son is employed as a guard in a tractor company, while their younger son is studying in the 9th grade. Asha had been volunteering with the WaterAid team from the beginning. Her husband encouraged her to work as a volunteer with the WaterAid team so that she could increase her knowledge and help the deprived community in supporting them.

Asha Pradhan, a resident of Budhni Nagar Parishad, Sehore District, Madhya Pradesh, has been volunteering with WaterAid, a non-governmental organization focused-on water, sanitation and hygiene. She started working with the team to conduct surveys for sewerage connections. The municipal area was estimated to have sewers in 3,200. However, upon completion of the survey, the team could establish only 1,020 such sewer connections. Thereafter, Asha went from house to house informing people about the benefits of sewerage connections and the processes of dealing with wastewater. She also facilitated community meetings to raise awareness and prepare people to establish connections to the sewer line. Through this campaign, connections were successfully established for about 2,470 homes.

In recognition of her dedicated efforts towards cleanliness and sanitation, the Ward No. 9 Mohalla Committee of the Nagar Parishad elected Asha as the Chairman of the Committee. She took the responsibility of ensuring cleanliness in the locality herself. Being vigilant about the cleanliness in her ward, Asha began coordinating with the Sanitary Inspector of the municipal corporation to carry out cleaning work. People from the community began to approach Asha, with their concerns rather than going to their elected representative, confident that she can provide help resolve them.

Asha’s tireless efforts extend beyond cleanliness and sanitation. She has taken it upon herself to educate women from underprivileged communities on menstrual hygiene. Asha teaches them to make pads from cloth and uses WaterAid’s educational games to educate young girls and debunk menstrual hygiene myths, which is highly commendable.

As a result of Asha's dedication, the community is benefiting from improved sanitation, access to sewer lines, and menstrual hygiene education. Open water channels that used to attract mosquitoes and garbage are no longer seen, and the dependency on the municipality to empty household toilets has been reduced. Significant improvements have been made in municipal cleanliness, and myths related to menstrual hygiene have been debunked.

Asha's selfless service has not only earned her the respect of the community but has also made her family very proud. Her efforts are a shining example of how individuals can make a significant difference in their community by taking responsibility and working towards a common goal.

Kusumlata, a shining example from Choti Bhil Basti, Jodhpur, defied the odds in her community, where women's education was often neglected in favor of traditional household roles. Supported by her parents, she persevered, achieving a post-graduation degree, a rarity among young women in her neighborhood.

Since her early years, Kusumlata's heart beat for community service. Together with her husband, who shared her passion for social work, they reached out to those in need. Through the transformational journey revealing the formidable challenges confronting her community, Kusumlata recognized that, with the right guidance and approach, they could overcome these hurdles. Hence, when the chance came, Kusumlata eagerly joined the Moving India Towards Sanitation for All (MISAAL) Settlement Committee.

MISAAL, an initiative under the Urban Management Centre (UMC), operates in 4 Indian cities, including Sambalpur in Odisha. The program concentrates on mapping, measuring, and monitoring sanitation service delivery and infrastructure to attain and sustain Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. Kusumlata engaged wholeheartedly in the committee's training, awareness campaigns, and orientation sessions. Her educational background and unwavering commitment propelled her to represent her MISAAL Settlement Committee (MSC).

"It is because of everything I learned through the MISAAL Settlement Committee that I have been able to make an impression on the residents, and they have elected me to represent them," Kusumlata affirmed.

As she advocated for her community before the authorities, Kusumlata recognized the potential to drive meaningful change not just in sanitation, but beyond. The forthcoming Municipal elections offered her a chance to seize that opportunity. Encouraged by her husband, she stood for the Ward Councilor elections, earning a unanimous mandate.

Throughout the pandemic, Kusumlata became a beacon of hope, ensuring that services for urban poor settlements in her constituency did not go unnoticed. In her new role, she collaborated with other MSCs in her ward, addressing their concerns and conducting vital awareness sessions, including menstrual hygiene for adolescent girls. Kusumlata's leadership also galvanized the Urban Local Body (ULB) in conducting vaccination drives and spreading awareness about COVID-19 vaccinations. Her journey reflects the extraordinary impact that one individual's unwavering commitment can have on a community's well-being.

S. Amuthavalli, the City Engineer at Trichy City Corporation (TCC), embarked on an inspirational journey within the sanitation sector, where her dedication and expertise became a beacon of hope during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amuthavalli's background was grounded in engineering, but her heart was committed to ensuring safe and efficient sanitation for her city. Her inspiration came from the understanding that sanitation is not just a service but a fundamental necessity, especially during a global health crisis.

As the pandemic struck, the TCC faced a daunting task of maintaining the sanitation workforce. Recognizing the vulnerability of her staff, Amuthavalli's motivation was unwavering. The TCC, under Amuthavalli's leadership, sprang into action to protect and support the sanitation workforce. When migrant workers faced the shock of the pandemic, the TCC ensured they experienced minimal disruption. Adequate food and supplies were provided until arrangements were made for their safe return to their hometowns, showcasing her compassionate and practical approach.

During the pandemic, Amuthavalli's leadership was instrumental in ensuring safe sanitation. The TCC swiftly identified containment zones, where barricades were erected. Essential provisions such as rations, drinking water, and medical facilities were promptly delivered. Amuthavalli's team exhibited tremendous dedication, often working night shifts to avert panic.

Her focus on innovation and hygiene led to the installation of leg-operated hand washing stations in public spaces and prominent city locations, contributing to the efforts to reduce COVID-19 transmission. Her teams ensured that those returning from abroad received individual attention and that their families were engaged to promote safety measures.

Amuthavalli's leadership extended beyond the immediate crisis. Drawing from the lessons of a COVID-19 hotspot in Chennai's Koyambedu marketplace, she proactively prevented a similar outbreak in Trichy. By relocating vendors to different, less congested locations, she helped curb the virus's spread.

Amuthavalli's journey in the sanitation sector is a testament to the indomitable spirit and impact of inspirational leadership. Her dedication to protecting the sanitation workforce and her innovative measures in the face of adversity exemplify the way forward for cities confronting unprecedented challenges. Her remarkable journey inspires change and serves as a model for others in the sanitation sector.

With an unwavering commitment to inclusive sanitation, Mathi Vathanan has harnessed his team's dedication to transform Odisha's urban development landscape. Mathi has been the Commissioner and Secretary of the Department of Housing & Urban Development, Government of Odisha, since 2014. Under his leadership, Odisha witnessed the launch and effective implementation of various sanitation policies and guidelines.

Mathi Vathanan's vision was deeply rooted in addressing the social stigma and the lack of sufficient compensation for core sanitation work. He spearheaded multiple comprehensive schemes and policies that ensured that services reached the most vulnerable and that the service providers live safe and dignified lives. His passion to bring sustainable change to the lives of sanitation workers became a driving force for relentless effort.

The remarkable 'GARIMA' scheme, initiated in 2020 under Mathi's guidance, played a pivotal role in ensuring efficient sanitation systems and dignified lives for sanitation workers. This groundbreaking scheme provides welfare measures to those who directly handle faecal matter in their line of work, covering areas like community and public toilets, wastewater treatment plants, drain cleaning, and maintenance of confined spaces such as septic tanks and sewer lines. By consulting workers about what their requirements were, Mathi ensures that they were involved in the process as advisors whose insights were taken absolutely seriously. Working closely with the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mathi led the consultative process that brought together stakeholders, sector experts, and community voices to shape the GARIMA scheme, which addressed all concerns raised by the stakeholders, thus enabling dignified livelihoods for sanitation workers.

Mathi’s motivation in conceiving the GARIMA scheme was to address the generational injustice implicated in manual sanitation work and the safety threats that workers faced while handling faecal-matter. There was not only the lack of a comprehensive scheme which addressed safety and dignity, but also the lack of information on the number of workers and the extent of danger they faced. Once they conducted a sincere study, they were able to implement a variety of solutions. Specific PPE kits tailored to various core sanitation roles were identified and recommended for procurement by Urban Local Bodies. To alleviate the challenges faced by workers in handling and cleaning, GARIMA rest sheds were established, providing a safe space to rest, store PPE, and clean equipment. These sheds allowed sanitation workers to separate their work from the rest of their lives by cleaning themselves and storing their uniforms, which helps alter people’s perceptions of sanitation workers as “dirty” or unhygienic and enables dignified working conditions.

Mathi believes that an empathetic and collaborative approach is crucial for the effective implementation of schemes targeted at vulnerable sanitation workers. Convergence, cross-learning, and sensitivity to worker needs are key to introducing worker-friendly policies and practices. The Department initiated Emergency Response Sanitation Units, adopting national advisories tailored to state requirements for better on-ground implementation.

Under Mathi’s leadership, Odisha has won some prestigious international awards for sustainable urban development such as the Global Water Leader Distinction Award 2022 for 24x7 Drink from Tap, World Habitat Award 2019 and 2023 for the JAGA Mission, the Asia Pacific Housing Forum Award 2021 for JAGA Mission, the WRI Ross Prize for Cities for MUKTA in 2021-22, among many others.

Having won multiple trans-national and global awards, Mathi emphasizes the importance of identifying and registering sanitation workers to ensure they access their rights and entitlements. He plans to engage with private contractors, encouraging them to adopt model contracts that foster safe and dignified work environments. By reshaping the occupational landscape, Mathi aims to challenge societal mindsets and ensure sanitation workers lead dignified lives. Through synergy among stakeholders and robust enumeration processes, Mathi is driving transformative change for sanitation workers in Odisha, underpinned by the Garima scheme's ideals of dignity and safety.

To Learn More about the GARIMA Scheme: https://urban.odisha.gov.in/more/GARIMA

Before landing in WSH, Aasim used to work for a construction company in Mumbai. Wanting to do something more meaningful that leaves behind a lasting impact, he decided to pursue Town Planning from CEPT University. Urban services, like water and sanitation, fascinated Aasim and led him to join the Centre for Water and Sanitation (CWAS), where he has been for 13 years. Through his experience, he has come to recognize WSH services as critical public goods.

Associated with CWAS since 2010, Aasim has extensive experience in WSH across India, Nepal, and Africa. He leads CWAS' work in supporting sanitation programs in small and medium towns in Maharashtra, focusing on City Wide Inclusive Sanitation and Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM). He provides technical support to the Maharashtra government for Swachh Bharat Mission in urban areas. He is passionate about working towards efforts to mitigate climate change through WSH.

Aasim believes that inclusivity has a non-negotiable place in sanitation service delivery, and it cannot be fragmented but must be city-wide, self-financed, and self-monitored. For him, strengthening existing systems is at the core of inclusivity. To be truly inclusive, safe sanitation services must reach every household, especially those in hard-to-reach areas with high population density and cramped roads.

A thrilling initiative Aasim led as part of CWAS is “scheduled desludging”, which carries out regular or periodic services instead of being demand-based, implemented in Maharashtra. This first-of-its-kind initiative in India has helped improve the quality of and conserve water. To make the concept more relatable to people when first introduced in 2013, they compared it to Ghanta Gaadi, which does daily door-to-door waste collection from households. Instead of being daily, scheduled desludging would occur once every three years. The analogy was a game-changer in building political will and getting the initiative implemented!

This journey of doing what it takes to translate powerful ideas from the bookshelf to the ground and scaling them keeps Aasim driven. Being surrounded by a community of experts, as part of the NFSSM Alliance, has played an instrumental role in helping Aasim and CWAS scale efforts. Aasim believes that even though CWAS has strong relationships with the government, it has a much more significant impact when 30+ organizations come together to approach the government.

The Alliance has been pivotal in shifting the focus from toilets to the entire sanitation value chain and promoting inclusivity in SBM. For Aasim, engaging in the NFSSM Alliance has been a personal and professional triumph. Motivated by this community, Aasim continues inspiring others with his innovative solutions to help people adopt WSH services.

Ramakant Dake, Chief Municipal Council of Karad, Maharashtra embarked on a journey that would lead to making Karad one of the cleanest and most sustainable cities in India. Under his guidance, Karad achieved top ranks in the Swachh Survekshan surveys, and it is now recognized as a “Water Plus" city. This transformation reflects a pioneering vision for wastewater management, achieved by Dake’s dedication to community participation and hygiene.

The introduction of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, provided Ramakant and his team the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of citizens. While in charge of Pandharpur in 2014, Ramakant noticed how the river overflowing into the town caused major problems for the community, with many people having to vacate their homes. At the time, there were no toilets either and people would defecate in the open, and with the river overflowing it would create unsanitary and dangerous conditions. Ramakant noticed workers’ suffering in having to clean areas near the riverbed where people littered and openly defecated. He was a part of the Water Plus initiative which focused on bringing meaningful change not just to the city, but to the lives of sanitation workers. Through various campaigns, the initiative has targeted people’s paradigms towards sanitation workers, of seeing them as “dirty” or ignorable. With cleanliness campaigns, citizen’s attitudes towards sanitation workers have been driven towards respect, which is a major observable change.

The Water Plus journey dates to 1966, when P. D. Patil, the Mayor of Karad, envisioned a city with fully processed wastewater and multiple uses for it. This vision led to the creation of the underground drainage system. Simultaneously, an organization called Preethisangam Panisapuri Sanstha was established to supply treated water to farmers. This initiative not only benefited sanitation but also agriculture, reducing the use of fertilizers. Since 1974, Karad has been reusing wastewater 100%.

Community participation was key to Karad's success. Ramakant highlights that it was citizens' involvement that drove the transformation. They understood the benefits of cleanliness for their well-being. Karad's approach of not only collecting but also processing and reusing wastewater inspired and resonated with its people.

Ramakant’s vision is not just about rankings and surveys; it's about sustainable practices. The city is now working towards further reducing costs, increasing solar energy usage, and expanding green buildings. The aim is to involve maximum social groups to manage solid waste, ensuring that the municipality's costs are minimized, and citizens' daily lives are unaffected.

With citizens' transformed mindset and continual campaigns, Ramakant believes the pursuit of sustainability and clean water will be an ongoing success. He recognizes the positive change in society's perception of sanitation workers, who are now held in higher regard.

Ramakant is proud to be part of this journey and envisions even more positive changes for Karad. His vision focuses on reducing expenses, expanding the use of solar energy, and ensuring that the cleanliness initiatives continue to transform not only Karad but India as a whole. Under his leadership, Karad has set a shining example of prioritizing water management, cleanliness, and sustainability for other cities to follow.

Thiru Kesavan's journey in the sanitation sector is a remarkable testament to dedication and leadership, improving the lives of the residents of Karunguzhi, Tamil Nadu.

Kesavan's voyage in sanitation began as the Executive Officer of Karunguzhi Town Panchayat, where he played a pivotal role in implementing the state's first Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) in 2017. The FSTP offered a transformative approach to waste management for the town and neighboring municipalities.

Inspired by the prospect of enhancing the living conditions of his town's residents, Kesavan recognized that safe sanitation practices not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the broader community's well-being. Under his leadership, Karunguzhi achieved significant milestones.

Kesavan persevered through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. When the lockdown initially disrupted sanitation work, he secured special permissions to continue essential maintenance in the city. The safety of sanitation workers was a top priority, and Kesavan ensured they had the necessary protective equipment.

Navigating the pandemic, Kesavan's team faced the challenges of maintaining social distancing and adhering to safety protocols in public spaces. To keep citizens informed, they created WhatsApp groups and used social media to disseminate health and government resource information. Engaging with the community, they organized contests for children and families, raising awareness about sanitation and public health.

Kesavan's exemplary use of social media not only showcased their efforts but also caught the state government's attention. It led to financial support for the Town Panchayat's sanitation initiatives, further amplifying the impact of their work.

Thiru Kesavan's innovative approach has not only improved the lives of Karunguzhi's residents but also set an example for others to adapt to the local context while implementing solutions.

Mr. Thirumudikari's journey within the sanitation sector is an inspiring testament to his commitment and visionary leadership in improving the lives of Tamil Nadu's urban population.

Thirumudikari's background in urban development instilled in him a deep passion for ensuring that every individual in Tamil Nadu has access to safe sanitation. His inspiration was drawn from the understanding that sanitation is not a privilege but a fundamental right and a cornerstone of public health.

As Joint Director (Scheme) at the Directorate of Town Panchayats, he envisioned safe sanitation services that would cater to all sections of society. Thirumudikari's leadership catalyzed the adoption of non-networked sanitation systems and a cluster approach, fostering equitable service delivery throughout Tamil Nadu. Memorandums of understanding were signed between Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to ensure last-mile service delivery, demonstrating his commitment to reaching every community.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unforeseen challenges, and Thirumudikari rose to the occasion as a Special Officer in the Chengalpattu District. He recognized sanitation and Faecal Sludge Management as essential services, and their standard operating procedures were meticulously established to ensure smooth operations.

With the pandemic's outbreak, Thirumudikari launched targeted healthcare and sanitation-driven communication campaigns, emphasizing the importance of citizen engagement and informed decision-making. A behavioral shift towards hygiene practices was observed, making the sanitation sector's mission more attainable.

The welfare of sanitation workers was at the core of Thirumudikari's leadership during the pandemic. Proactive measures were taken, including providing personal protective equipment (PPE), conducting testing, contact tracing, and isolation, and ensuring that frontline sanitation warriors remained safe in their roles. As the lockdown restrictions continued, Thirumudikari's leadership enabled Tamil Nadu's urban sanitation to adapt and thrive amid adversity. It underscored the importance of inter-departmental coordination, case history management, and grassroots monitoring, ultimately reducing infections and bolstering public health.

Going forward, Tamil Nadu's urban sanitation initiatives have embraced Thirumudikari's vision of being more participatory, localized, multi-disciplinary, and user-focused. Sustainable and scalable solutions are paving the way for safer and more equitable urban sanitation delivery across the state.

Thirumudikari's journey embodies the spirit of transformative leadership, emphasizing the vital role of sanitation in public health. His dedication has not only improved the lives of countless individuals but has also set a path for Tamil Nadu to overcome one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, making safe sanitation a reality for all.

Praveen's venture into the not-so-glamorous world of fecal sludge management (FSM) began with an internship that initially seemed baffling to him. However, this experience turned out to be the catalyst that ignited his passion for a cause that resonated deeply within him. Hailing from a mechanical engineering background and a stint in the mining industry, Praveen's quest for deeper significance led him to Institute of Rural Management Anand, a B School espousing values steering towards nurturing professionals for non-profits and cooperatives. His journey in FSM when he decided to pursue an internship opportunity with CDD society during his MBA. Despite initial confusion about fecal sludge management's intricacies and necessity for a business model, Praveen plunged into the assignment, discovering the complexity within stakeholders' needs and dynamics, an experience that reshaped his path and instilled his belief in FSM as a solution. Little did he realize the profound impact this assignment would have on his life and the lives of countless others.

The shift in Praveen's perspective came during his fieldwork in Nepal post the 2015 earthquake. Amidst the aftermath, he recognized the profound impact of sanitation amidst dire humanitarian needs. The unsanitary conditions were causing significant distress, impacting not just their physical health but also their dignity and overall well-being. Witnessing the consequences of inadequate sanitation on people's lives during a disaster ignited a passion within him. He recognized that sanitation, particularly inclusive sanitation, was not merely a matter of waste management but a fundamental human right. He delved into learning the intricacies of sanitation, utilizing his experience to set up the first fecal sludge treatment plant in Nepal after the earthquake.

Returning from Nepal, Praveen's dedication to transforming sanitation in India grew stronger. However, he recognized that the issue extended beyond technical solutions; it required a societal shift in perspective. Praveen's work with CDD took shape, realizing - scalable impact hinges not just on infrastructural design but on advocacy, education, and influencing policy. Armed with no background in civil or environmental sciences, he had to learn quickly, right from the basics to cutting-edge innovations. His entire journey of learning was intensive and elaborate - from theory and research, scaled-down experimentation, full-scale pilots, and monitoring. Praveen recalls how his foray into training and capacity building was shaped by the need to make sanitation a household subject which is well understood by everyone. These days, he endeavors to explain to a broader audience, in simple terms, solutions to complex urban sanitation problems, through trainings and government engagements via creative and innovative methods of delivery. 

As Praveen's journey progressed, so did the sector's evolution. From struggling to explain the need for faecal sludge management to governments, the landscape shifted. Awareness grew, policies evolved, and burgeoning private sector involvement signaled progress.

Praveen's involvement with the NFSSM Alliance provided access to a network that shared his vision, fostering collective wisdom and solutions. The Alliance's collaborative platform offered a repository of shared experiences, streamlining problem-solving and catalyzing faster responses.  This platform nurtured collaboration and expedited solutions, offering a space for collective learning and knowledge exchange, empowering faster responses to sector challenges.

Praveen's aspirations for the sector are clear and profound: envisioning a world where sanitation is not a privilege but a humanitarian right, where cities thrived in resilience and inclusivity, unchained from the burdens of inadequate waste management.

Praveen's journey is not just about waste management; it is a testament to the transformative impact individuals can have when driven by empathy and a relentless pursuit of social justice. His story stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to embark on journeys that may initially seem daunting but ultimately lead to profound change.

Santosh Nargund, a seasoned aerospace engineer turned civic advocate, embodies a multifaceted journey. His trajectory, rife with technical prowess and civic fervor, converges in his involvement with the NFSSM Alliance and his current role at the Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy. 

Beginning his career as an Aerospace Scientist, Santosh led groundbreaking projects on iconic aircraft models for both government and private sectors. He led global teams on several pioneer projects on aircrafts such as the Tejas (Indian Light Combat Aircraft), Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350XWB and the A320 neo. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIM-B), and armed with a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering and a Master's in Technology in Structural Engineering, his industry tenure ignited his dedication to community development. This new-found passion led him to transition from industry, diving into grassroots initiatives spanning climate action, sanitation, and societal reforms.

Santosh does not view cities as economic hubs only but sees them as crucial habitats for sustainable living for an aspirational population. His pivot towards systemic interventions aimed to transform cities into safe, prosperous environments for all residents, including the most marginalized. 

Santosh expounds on the vital role of sanitation in human life and its historical significance, dating back to civilizations like the Indus Valley. He illuminates the inherent inequalities in sanitation access, advocating for addressing these disparities. Reflecting on his experiences, Santosh recounted a poignant anecdote from his early days. Working in an urban poor community in Bangalore, he spearheaded efforts to secure sanitation facilities, catalyzing community mobilization that led to governmental attention and some initial improvements. Stressing the significance of inclusive sanitation as a fundamental human right, he champions equitable access and community involvement for sustainable practices.

Santosh believes that his involvement with the NFSSM Alliance emerged as a privilege. It serves as a collaborative nucleus where like-minded individuals converge, singularly dedicated to elevating sanitation practices nationwide. Engaging with diverse partners within the Alliance heightened Santosh's awareness of gender-specific sanitation needs, influencing his commitment to inclusive sanitation and gender-sensitive urban development. 

Santosh recognizes the critical role of stakeholder appetite and collaboration in expediting reforms for effective urban governance. His affiliation with Janaagraha, an organization at the forefront of systemic change in urban governance, dovetails perfectly with the Alliance's mission. By leveraging Janaagraha's systemic approach, Santosh underscores the need for a comprehensive view of sanitation, one that addresses not just the immediate challenges but also embraces cross-learning from various sectors to drive impactful change.  

Santosh's story echoes the collaborative spirit and relentless pursuit of equitable urban development and inclusive sanitation within the NFSSM Alliance, painting a vivid picture of dedication and systemic change in the pursuit of a more sanitary and equitable society.

Dr. Shafia Wani, a dedicated advocate for sanitation in Jammu & Kashmir, stands at the forefront of revolutionizing urban sanitation practices in the region. Her illustrious journey intertwines her passion for public welfare with her role as an integral part of the Government’s Jammu & Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development. Dr. Wani's work isn't confined to merely training and policy interventions; it spans a vast spectrum, focusing on capacitating various stakeholders at multiple levels of governance. 

Her journey into the realm of sanitation commenced when she became increasingly aware of the dire need for improvement in sanitation practices within the region. The context of the state's unsatisfactory sanitation practices, leading to adverse health outcomes and environmental degradation, fueled her passion for initiating transformative change. 

A trailblazer in Kashmir's sanitation domain, Dr. Wani had a distinguished role in initiating and revolutionizing faecal sludge management in J&K. Her journey in this field stands as a beacon of change, driven by a profound desire to rectify the inadequacies in sanitation practices that have plagued the region for years. Her involvement in the Swachh Bharat Mission since its inception wasn't merely about individual household latrines but extended to identifying critical gaps in sanitation practices beyond access to toilets. Dr. Wani recognized a glaring omission in faecal sludge management, liquid waste, and solid waste handling. This insight led her to devise innovative strategies to address these overlooked yet vital aspects. Her journey began with a stark realization that the prevailing focus on individual latrines was incomplete without addressing the aftermath - the management of waste generated. She recognized the potential hazards posed by unmanaged faecal sludge and wastewater before ODF++ was mainstreamed. Her vision extended beyond immediate fixes, pushing for a holistic solution to tackle this issue at its core. 

As part of her efforts, she first focused on training sessions and awareness programs targeting a wide spectrum of stakeholders. Her approach wasn't one-size-fits-all; it was a nuanced, personalized endeavor aimed at local leaders, government officials, and frontline workers. These sessions were specifically tailored to highlight the criticality of proper fecal sludge management and its impact on health and the environment. One of the most impactful aspects of Dr. Wani's work was the application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Field visits, workshops, and hands-on training became integral to her strategy. By collaborating with local bodies and organizations like WASH Institute, she facilitated training sessions that provided insights into on-ground challenges and effective management techniques. An anecdote that resonates with her journey involves engaging an elderly person initially resistant to change. Through empathy and patient explanation, she transformed his outlook, turning him into a vocal advocate for better sanitation practices. This anecdote highlights her ability to connect with communities and change mindsets effectively. Dr. Wani’s belief system centers community well-being and participation. With those two tenets coming together, she has knowingly ensured sanitation practices that are sustainable and not driven by the top administration, instead driven by the people and for the people.

Dr. Wani envisions a Kashmir with robust waste management systems in place, ensuring efficient faecal sludge management, wastewater treatment, and proper waste disposal. Her emphasis on awareness and software-level changes remains at the forefront of her vision for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. Her unwavering commitment to faecal sludge management epitomizes her dedication to transforming sanitation practices in Kashmir. Her journey signifies not just individual efforts but a clarion call for collective action towards a comprehensive and effective waste management system, safeguarding the health of communities and the environment. 

Dr. Wani's vision for the state of Jammu and Kashmir revolves around comprehensive sanitation management. Her aspirations encompass efficient wastewater and solid waste management systems, reducing pollution of natural water bodies like the famous Dal Lake. 

Nell Vasa’s journey in the realm of urban development and sanitation unfolds as a narrative shaped by dedicated interventions and a profound commitment to community engagement. His role as a Senior Environmental Officer within the State Urban Development Department echoes his deep-rooted involvement in transforming sanitation practices in the northeastern state of Nagaland. With his background ranging from land resources to pollution control, he brought a unique perspective to urban development in Nagaland, tackling the challenges of the hilly terrain and limited infrastructure head-on. 

Nell had been a silent force driving transformative change in urban sanitation, particularly focusing on feacal waste management in Nagaland. His journey, from working with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to leading significant projects within the urban development sphere, showcase his unwavering dedication to improving living conditions in the state. 

His journey commenced with the ADB Assistance Project, targeting urban infrastructure, including water supply, sewerage, sanitation, and solid waste management. In a terrain, where conventional sewer lines were impractical due to narrow roads and challenging landscapes, Vasa introduced innovative solutions. He focused on septic tanks as a primary means of waste management. However, disposing and treating the sludge was a challenge until he pioneered the implementation of the 90 kilolitres per day fecal sludge management plan, employing the Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket technology, where wastewater flows upwards through a blanket and is processed by anaerobic microorganisms. This initiative addressed the lack of treatment facilities for the vast number of septic tanks in the state, positively impacting around 20,000 households in Kohima.  

The project also involved constructing community toilet blocks, emphasizing community involvement and ownership. Convincing the community was a task involving extensive discussions, focus group meetings, and highlighting the benefits of the project for both the people and the environment. He was also able to highlight the potential for improved livelihoods through which he finally managed to garner community support. Addressing the challenges of climate and sanitation, Nell adopted a holistic approach, considering factors like rainfall, drought, and flash floods and the region's topography to ensure disaster preparedness was a key focus. This vision aimed to prepare the sanitation infrastructure to withstand the effects of climate change, a critical consideration given Nagaland's diverse geographical features and susceptibility to disasters. 

The impact was significant, with reduced effluent disposal into natural drains, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment. However, despite the success of the intervention, challenges persisted, especially in sustaining Operations and Maintenance (O&M) post-contractor involvement. Nell’s resolve led him to seek solutions that had worked in other states, including outsourcing O&M contracting to private parties, aiming to resume operations by 2024. Despite the complexities, Vasa emphasized that the core tenet in urban development continues to be community involvement. He believed that building trust and confidence within communities could mitigate challenges, making urban infrastructure more adaptable and resilient.

His journey from land resources to pollution control and then urban development had significantly influenced his approach. His multifaceted experiences allowed him to comprehend the intricate relationship between environmental concerns and urban development projects. 

His story exemplifies the impact that an individual, deeply committed to community involvement and innovative approaches, can have in transforming urban sanitation, especially in regions where traditional methods might not suffice. Through his dedication, Nell Vasa illuminated a path toward sustainable and community-centric urban development in Nagaland.

Raised in a family where both parents worked as municipal street sweepers, Mantu knew since his childhood that he would do sanitation work. Knowing the hardships of a low-income life and with no guidance about the importance of education in planning his future, Mantu studied till 10th grade and then sought financial stability by applying for a range of jobs. Besides providing for his younger brother and sister's education, he faced the challenges of supporting his own family, including his 2-year-old daughter.

A turning point came when Mantu learned about a meeting organized by Dhenkanal Municipality, offering a chance to join a male Self-Help Group under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Urban Livelihood Mission (DAY-NULM) and Swacch Bharat Mission convergence. Recognizing the opportunities ahead, he joined the group and became the driving force behind OMM SAI SHG. He conducted regular meetings, went door-to-door, and inspired members to save, eventually enabling them to access bank loans.

Mantu's leadership enabled him to convince the group to submit an application to Dhenkanal Municipality for the operation and maintenance of community toilets. Overcoming social stigmas tied to sanitation work, the group submitted their application and was subsequently awarded the contract.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial constraints and irregular payments, Mantu's resolve kept the group united. He learned the intricacies of Dhenkanal Municipality's operations, ensuring the enterprise's continuity through internal savings. They capitalized on their internal savings and planned to start an alternative livelihood enterprise. Their success story continues, as they aim to secure more contracts and expand their community toilet initiative.

Dhenkanal Municipality recognizes Mantu's group for their outstanding performance and plans to award them more contracts, built on the foundation of trust established through sheer hard work and dedication. Through his journey, Mantu not only became an entrepreneur but also gained valuable skills, increased safety awareness, and accessed various schemes to improve his family's life. His transformation is a testament to the transformative power of determination and community-driven initiatives in the sanitation sector.

Sanjay Kedar's journey in the sanitation sector paints an inspiring tale of transformation and progress. Appointed as the Chief Officer of Sinnar Municipal Council in February 2020, he embarked on a mission to tackle the sanitation challenges plaguing the industrial town of Sinnar in Maharashtra.

Sinnar faced multiple sanitation hurdles, making it imperative for the Municipal Council to plan and implement Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) services. With support from (Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology) CEPT University’s Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS), CEPT Research & Development Foundation (CRDF), this collaborative effort aimed to set a model for other towns and cities without external funds.

Sanjay's visionary leadership focused on scheduled desludging as a public service to achieve ODF++ status. Under this program, every property along a defined route received advanced notifications about desludging, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Sinnar was divided into 3 zones, with each zone's septic tanks slated for desludging over a 3-year cycle. This initiative was implemented through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, leveraging performance-linked annuity contracts between the desludging company and the local government. To sustain the services, a sanitation tax was imposed to secure adequate funds.

Crucially, Sanjay ensured that FSSM services benefitted all sections of society, including low-income families and slum residents. This inclusive approach aimed to provide scheduled desludging services to everyone.

Moreover, Sinnar's Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) was operated by a private entity. Treated wastewater was ingeniously repurposed for landscaping and maintaining an urban forest. Self-Help Group (SHG) members played an active role in daily maintenance, while the FSTP relied solely on solar energy, making it a self-sufficient and eco-friendly plant.

Sanjay's vision created a blueprint for other cities to follow, showcasing that scheduled desludging is not only possible but immensely beneficial. It underlines that small and medium towns possess the potential to offer FSSM as a regular service and reap its rewards.

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanjay's leadership took center stage. The safety of sanitation workers was paramount, with the distribution of PPE kits and stringent adherence to health guidelines.

Sanjay's unwavering dedication ensured the continuity of basic sanitation services even during the pandemic. Sanitation workers were issued ID cards and permission letters, hand washing stations were set up near toilets, and the FSTP continued to operate. His leadership ensured that Sinnar's sanitation sector not only thrived but contributed significantly to curbing the virus's impact.

Sanjay Kedar's journey stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership in transforming sanitation services and serving the community, even in the most challenging times. His forward-thinking approach has set Sinnar on a path of sustainable sanitation and inclusivity.