I have been working in north Indian villages, so I know the truth. Compared to the south Indian states, north India is less developed, and there's little awareness on menstrual hygiene.
The first possibility of rural cleanliness lies in water supply.
We have successfully achieved the target of building toilets in schools.
Cleanliness and sanitation were closest to Gandhiji's heart. We will launch a 'Clean India' campaign and by Gandhiji's 150th birth anniversary, all schools in the country should have toilets with separate toilets for girls.
Sanitation should not be seen as a political tool, but should only be connected to patriotism (rashtrabhakti) and commitment to public health.
We have to do whatever we can to ensure that no child dies of diarrhea.
Water for People is a non-profit international organization that brings together communities, entrepreneurs, governments - people - to create solutions that empower people to maintain their own reliable water systems and sanitation.
Almost 4.25 lakh toilets were built in 2.62 schools nationwide in one year; this gives self-confidence that we can do what we want.
If anything, all homes should have piped water supply and sanitation, which could improve public-health indicators and reduce infant mortality.
The provision of toilets is a minimum requirement for the dignity of our women.
I want to work on improving the number of schools for girls and ensuring there are proper and clean toilets so girls are encouraged to come to school. I am told this is a major reason for girls dropping out of schools.
Some lesser husbands built a latrine on the hillside.
I have requested the corporates to evolve plans under corporate social responsibility to build clean toilets specially for girl students in schools. India should learn from foreign countries, where people are disciplined and do not litter in public places.
