On the eve of International Women’s Day, women swachhagrahis Nirmala Kumari and Nisha Kumari, associated with the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen), were felicitated for their outstanding efforts in the realm of sanitation. Ms. Nirmala hails from Nandan Gram Panchayat in Dumraon block, Buxar district, while Ms. Nisha resides in Maheshmunda Gram Panchayat under Kahalgaon block of Bhagalpur district.
The accolades were bestowed upon both women for their pivotal role in making their respective Gram Panchayats ODF-Plus (Open Defecation Free Plus), a significant milestone in the journey towards cleanliness and sanitation. Both women were honored with trophies and shawls at a ceremony held at the WDC Office on March 7, 2024, where their contributions were applauded by officials and attendees alike.
Ms. Nirmala Kumari, a dedicated Swachhagrahi, has been instrumental in driving the sanitation agenda in her community. Joining the SBM-G Ph-I at the age of 20, Ms. Nirmala embarked upon a mission to eradicate open defecation by motivating households to construct toilets. Her relentless efforts bore fruit as she played a pivotal role in achieving ODF status for her Gram Panchayat. Subsequently, in SBMG Phase-II, Ms. Nirmala continued her crusade, advocating for solid and liquid waste management and also to sustain the ODF status. Her exemplary work earned her the position of full-time Sanitation Supervisor, further amplifying her impact on the ground. Notably, Ms. Nirmala’s initiative in collecting over Rs 46,000 as user charges underscores her commitment to the cause of sanitation.
In a similar vein, Ms. Nisha Kumari, through her unwavering dedication and persuasive skills, transformed Maheshmunda Gram Panchayat into an ODF-Plus community. Despite facing challenges such as widespread garbage accumulation and resistance to behavioral change, Ms. Nisha’s persistence and strategic approach led to a significant shift in community attitudes towards cleanliness. By raising awareness about the detrimental effects of unhygienic practices and elucidating the economic benefits of maintaining a clean environment, Ms. Nisha succeeded in garnering community support. Leveraging the assistance of self-help groups, local leaders, and school children, Ms. Nisha orchestrated a collective effort that culminated in the declaration of Maheshmunda Gram Panchayat as ODF Plus.
The commendable efforts of both women serve as an inspiring example of women empowerment and leadership at the grassroots in the realm of sanitation. Their dedication not only improves public health but also fosters community cohesion, women’s dignity, sustainable sanitation practices, improvement in environment, cleanliness and development of their GPs’.
As the state celebrated International Women’s Day, felicitation of exemplary women workers motivates other women to join the Mission and augment ‘jan andolan’ through their empowerment and instils confidence that they are the catalysts for the change they aspire to see.”
Following the reception of the award, both sanitation champions Ms. Nirmala and Ms, Nisha shared their triumphant journey of achieving ODF-Plus status in their respective Panchayats via efficient solid and liquid waste management at the SBMG State Office in Patna. State Coordinator, SBM(G) Bihar, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, lauded their efforts and conveyed his heartfelt congratulations, wishing them continued success.
For more information, please reach out to Suman Lal Karn, State Consultant- IEC at sc.iec@lsba.in
Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) 