The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri C R Patil chaired a critical review meeting in Delhi, emphasizing the state’s progress and challenges in implementing the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G). Rajasthan has made significant strides, ranking 10th in the country for ODF Plus Model progress, with 98% of its villages declared ODF Plus and 85% achieving ODF Plus Model status.

During the meeting, the Union Minister praised Rajasthan for its achievements—36,971 out of 43,447 villages are now ODF Plus Model—but urged the state to go further. “The progress so far is commendable, but the final push is where true transformation happens,” he remarked, calling for faster fund utilization and ground-level implementation.

Strengthening Faecal Sludge Management (FSM), in the state of Rajasthan only 114 blocks have completed verification, and no rural Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) have been built so far. The state was encouraged to tap into urban resources and finalize its FSM policy.

Rajasthan enhanced Waste Management with 94% of villages covered under Solid Waste Management (SWM). The focus now needs to shift towards ensuring segregation sheds and vehicles are fully functional and compost markets are linked. In Rajasthan, Plastic Waste Management Units (PWMUs) need a boost, with only one operational in rural areas.

In the area of Grey Water Management (GWM), nearly 98% of villages have systems in place, with the remaining to be saturated soon. Household soak pits for tap water connections under JJM were emphasized as a critical component.

The Union Minister highlighted the importance of sustainable practices, calling the state to implement its O&M policy to ensure the longevity of SBM assets. Community involvement, especially through self-help groups, was identified as a pathway to success. Acknowledging Rajasthan’s rich tourism heritage, the Union Minister urged the state to embrace the Swachhta Green Leaf Rating program to merge cleanliness with its cultural identity. “Rajasthan can set an example for the country, not just in sanitation but as a model for how tradition and innovation can work together,” he said.

The meeting concluded with renewed energy to ensure that Rajasthan meets its targets, positioning itself as a leader in rural sanitation. With support from the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the state is poised to make significant strides in the coming months.

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DSK