Poor sanitation is a curse we have been plagued with for a long time. Health effects of bad sanitation facilities have been well documented in the cover story and benefits to the health of the community as a result of an optimum sanitation system and improved productivity have been brought out in a number of case studies. The problem is not of India alone, but that does not absolve us of our responsibility to try and improve the system. One of the Millennium Development Goals is to halve by 2015, the proportion of people without access to safe drinking water and access to basic sanitation facilities. While India will more than achieve the target for drinking water, the same cannot be said about access to proper sanitation facilities.

The manifestations and bad effects of poor sanitation have been brought out well in the cover story. They are undeniably true and have serious implications for health and environment issues.

Fortunately, a renewed and vigorous emphasis has now been given to cleanliness by the introduction of the "Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan" by the Prime Minister. The mission is less about building toilets and more about change in mindsets and acknowledging the right of everyone to a clean and healthy environment. The objectives of this mission include elimination of open defecation, eradication of manual scavengers, improved methods for solid waste management, and effecting behavioural changes through extensive awareness programmes.

While these objectives are unexceptionable and need to be pursued vigorously, the institutional capacity is well below what is required. The waste management capacity is less than the quantum of waste generated and the availability of properly constructed latrines is woefully inadequate. Even the implementation of existing policies like the National Urban Sanitation Policy and National Mission on Sustainable Habitat is far from optimum.

Having said all this, it must be acknowledged that the new “Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan” has started having its impact. New sanitation facilities are being created at a rate which is much faster than before, public-private initiatives are being formulated at a new level, and general awareness has started improving.

The task before us for reaching the standards of developed countries is, however, formidable and will not permit any slackening of our efforts. The two most important components of a successful mission like this is an increased institutional capacity and a greater awareness among the public. These two components are inseparably linked to each other and our efforts will not be successful if we ignore any. The goal is difficult and will require long term efforts, commitment, and non-dramatic perseverance. Are we capable of that? We hope so!