The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today reviewed the progress of the Swachh Bharat Mission at a high-level meeting comprising top officers of the Ministries of Urban Development, Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation, NITI Aayog and PMO.
The Prime Minister was briefed on the progress towards toilet construction in all States. After comprehensively reviewing the situation, the Prime Minister directed concerned officers to specially coordinate with States which are lagging in toilet construction. Reviewing the Namaami Gange programme, he further directed that construction of toilets in habitations on the banks of the River Ganga should receive the highest priority.
Reviewing efforts at generating awareness and attitudinal change towards cleanliness, the Prime Minister said spiritual leaders should be associated with such efforts, especially during major congregational events such as the Jagannath Yatra and the Kumbh Mela. He said motivational incentives such as awards should also be instituted through official channels. In rural areas, the Prime Minister suggested quiz competitions among students to promote awareness.
The Prime Minister also called for leveraging the huge interest that Swachh Bharat has generated among the Indian diaspora.
Minister for Urban Development Shri Venkaiah Naidu, and Minister for Rural Development Shri Chaudhary Birender Singh were present.
