Centre Aims for Total Waste Management in Villages under Swachh Bharat Mission Phase-II

NEW DELHI: The Union Government on Thursday reiterated its commitment to transforming India’s rural landscape through the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase II, which is set to be implemented until 2026-27. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri V. Somanna, stated that the primary focus of this phase is maintaining Open Defecation Free (ODF) sustainability and ensuring every village is equipped with robust solid and liquid waste management systems.

The mission aims to upgrade villages from mere ODF status to “ODF Plus (Model)” villages, emphasizing visual cleanliness and scientific waste disposal. According to the latest data from the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) as of February 10, 2026, significant progress has been recorded in covering villages with solid and liquid waste management infrastructure across various States and Union Territories.

Beyond infrastructure, the Minister highlighted that behavioral change remains at the core of the mission. The program leverages Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategies to foster “Jan Bhagidari” or community partnership, ensuring that the local population takes ownership of the sanitation assets created. To support these outreach activities, the government has permitted an expenditure of up to 5% of total project funds specifically for awareness campaigns and capacity building at both central and state levels. (PIB)

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