In a significant step towards strengthening sustainable rural sanitation, the C. R. Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, chaired a virtual interaction on January 6, 2026, with States and Union Territories to review and promote innovative Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) models being implemented under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen). The interaction focused on community-led, scalable, and inclusive FSM solutions that go beyond toilet construction to address the entire sanitation value chain.
High-Level Participation and Nationwide Engagement
The interaction was attended by V. Somanna, Minister of State for Jal Shakti; Ashok K. K. Meena, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation; and Aishvarya Singh, Joint Secretary and Mission Director, SBM(G).
District Collectors, CEOs of Zilla Panchayats, SHG members, Panchayat representatives, State Mission Directors, and senior officials from nodal departments across States and UTs joined virtually, enabling cross-learning and experience sharing at scale.
Focus on Safe Sanitation Beyond Toilets
The objective of the interaction was to:
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Share successful and scalable FSM models from across the country
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Strengthen inter-State and inter-district learning
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Reinforce the importance of safe collection, transportation, treatment, and reuse of faecal sludge and wastewater
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Promote operation & maintenance (O&M) mechanisms ensuring long-term sustainability
The discussions highlighted how FSM contributes to public health protection, environmental safety, and Sampoorna Swachhata, while also creating local livelihoods.
Innovative FSM Models from Across India
Representatives from Gujarat, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Ladakh, and Tripura presented diverse FSM initiatives, including in-situ treatment systems, community-managed models, SHG-led O&M frameworks, and urban–rural linkages.
A standout initiative emerged from Khordha district, Odisha, where a transgender-led Self-Help Group manages the operation and maintenance of a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP). The model exemplifies inclusive sanitation service delivery, combining environmental sustainability with dignified livelihood opportunities for marginalised communities.
Other notable models included:
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Large-scale twin-pit toilet adoption in remote tribal areas of Dang district, Gujarat
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Retrofitting single-pit to twin-pit toilets in Mangan district, Sikkim, ensuring FSM compliance in hilly terrain
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India’s first rural FSTP at Kalibillod Gram Panchayat, Indore district, Madhya Pradesh, featuring pisciculture using treated effluent and a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) for additional revenue
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Cluster-based FSTP model in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, with strong SHG involvement
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Ecosan toilets adapted for extreme cold and high-altitude conditions in Leh district, Ladakh
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Mobile bio-toilets for public events in Gomati district, Tripura, managed through self-sustaining SHG-led O&M
Community Voices and Local Language Engagement
Community members directly involved in implementing FSM models interacted with the Union Minister, sharing on-ground experiences and challenges. The encouragement of local language communication enabled open, enthusiastic participation and practical insights from grassroots implementers.
Minister’s Remarks: Scalable, Inclusive and Sustainable FSM
Shri C. R. Patil lauded the States and communities for demonstrating that challenging geographies can inspire durable solutions. He emphasised that FSM is a critical pillar of sustainable rural sanitation, essential for protecting public health and ensuring a clean environment.
The Minister highlighted the importance of:
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Community participation
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Active involvement of SHGs, Panchayats, and local stakeholders
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Adoption of context-specific, need-based, and appropriate technologies
He also noted that many FSM initiatives are generating income and livelihoods, strengthening the economic dimension of sanitation. Shri Patil reaffirmed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the nationwide Swachhata movement has gained unprecedented momentum, carrying forward Gandhiji’s message of cleanliness and mass participation.
Conclusion
The interaction concluded with a reaffirmation of the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s commitment to support States and UTs in scaling FSM initiatives under SBM(G) through technical assistance, capacity building, and promotion of innovative, community-led models. The exchange reinforced that inclusive, locally driven FSM solutions are key to achieving sustainable rural sanitation and Sampoorna Swachhata across India.
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Source: PIB
