5.67 Lakh Villages in India Declared ODF Plus
Approximately 5.67 lakh villages across India have been declared ‘ODF Plus’. This number is nearly 467% higher compared to around one lakh villages in 2022. The information was released by the Ministry of Jal Shakti on 19 November, on the occasion of World Toilet Day.
According to the data, around 4.86 lakh villages have achieved the ‘ODF Plus Model’ stage during this period. This indicates that these villages not only maintain an open-defecation-free environment but also effectively manage solid and liquid waste, ensuring sustained hygiene practices. Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil stated that this transformation reflects nationwide participation and continued government support.
5.67 Lakh Villages Declared ODF Plus
Speaking at an event, Patil said, “The responsibility lay with the state governments, and the Centre supported the mission by enabling the construction of 12 crore toilets across rural and urban India.” He added that the widespread availability of toilets has led to major behavioural changes. Official figures show that the number of ODF Plus villages—approximately one lakh in December 2022—has risen by 467% to 5.67 lakh.
The number of ‘ODF Plus Model’ villages has increased to 4,85,818. Patil stated that millions of people who once practiced open defecation have now stopped. World Toilet Day is observed globally on November 19 to emphasize the urgent need for safe and sustainable sanitation, a key goal under Sustainable Development Goal 6.
As per the data, urban sanitation targets have also been exceeded. More than 63.7 lakh household toilets have been constructed, surpassing the mission target by over 108%. Similarly, the construction of public/community toilets has exceeded the target by 125%.
Patil Claims Sanitation Has Saved Nearly Three Lakh Children
Union Minister Patil credited the Swachh Bharat Mission for turning sanitation into a people’s movement. He claimed that improved sanitation has also enhanced child safety. Patil stated, “Sanitation has saved nearly 300,000 children’s lives.” He added that the government will continue funding the maintenance of sanitation infrastructure.