Disclaimer: This episode of Sustainability Karma with Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is not being broadcast on All India Radio due to the Model Code of Conduct on account of General Elections.

Welcome to the full Episode 1, Season 2, of Sustainability Karma, India’s first and only talk show on sustainability on All India Radio.

In this episode of Sustainability Karma, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister, Jal Shakti, talks about how India launched and sustained a sanitation movement, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target on sanitation 11 years ahead of schedule, and India’s contribution to the progress on SDGs globally.

Shekhawat says that India’s journey towards eradicating open defecation and advancing sanitation has been remarkable, especially in the light of SDGs. In 2014, on the occasion of Gandhiji’s 150th birth anniversary, the Prime Minister from the ramparts of Red Fort set an ambitious goal to eliminate open defecation within five years, aligning with global discussions transitioning from Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to SDGs. At that time, India accounted for 60% of the global open defecation burden, prompting a worldwide call to action to achieve universal access to sanitation by 2030.

He emphasises that through a concerted effort and the launch of a nationwide people’s movement, India achieved this goal ahead of schedule. On October 2, 2019, the Prime Minister declared India free from open defecation, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s sanitation efforts.

India’s success in sanitation holds broader implications for global SDGs attainment. The progress made in India, particularly in terms of access to drinking water and sanitation, has contributed significantly to global SDGs progress. Given India’s status as one of the largest contributors to the global sanitation burden, its early achievement of SDG targets has set a positive example for other nations, says the minister

India’s role in progress on SDGs is pivotal, adds Shekhawat, as its success demonstrates that ambitious goals can be pursued with dedication, mobilisation, and effective policies. The country’s ability to fulfil SDG targets ahead of schedule reflects a commendable commitment to improving the lives of its citizens and contributing to global development efforts.

He emphasises that credit must be attributed to India’s leadership, particularly Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for spearheading the sanitation drive and galvanizing public support. India’s accomplishments in sanitation serve as a testament to the power of collective action and underscore the importance of sustained efforts in addressing global challenges. As the world continues its pursuit of SDG targets, India’s experience offers valuable lessons and inspiration for nations striving to achieve similar milestones in sanitation and beyond.