The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, and UNICEF India, organized the National Rural Sanitation Workshop today at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. 

The event brought together key stakeholders including senior government officials, state mission directors, development partners and sector experts to review the progress of the SBM-G and identify priorities for its next phase.

Delivering the Address, Secretary, DDWS, Shri Ashok KK Meena, said: “As we move forward on the SBM-G journey, we recognize that sanitation is not just about infrastructure, it is about dignity, equity and sustainability. 

This event and the launch of these protocols reflect the government’s commitment of leaving no one behind, while adapting to the climate challenges of our times. 

The next phase of SBM-G must continue to build on the collective momentum of the last decade and anchor local leadership in delivery.”

As part of the workshop, two important technical publications were released that represents an important step towards ensuring that sanitation services are not only safe and inclusive but also climate-resilient and equitable.