New Delhi: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government's efforts on the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission.

Significant Progress in Sustainable Development Goals
During the event, Ghebreyesus highlighted the significant strides made in achieving sustainable development goals through this transformative initiative, which mobilises communities to foster a cleaner and healthier nation.

Affectionately introducing himself as "Tulsi Bhai," he stated, "I am honoured to help you celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission. It shows how strong political commitment can drive transformative change toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)."

Prioritising Sanitation and Hygiene
Ghebreyesus praised the Indian government for making sanitation and hygiene national priorities by mobilising resources, engaging communities, and igniting a movement aimed at eliminating open defecation. He emphasized that the Swachh Bharat Mission's focus on equity, local engagement, accountability, and sustainability is vital for its success.

He remarked, "It prioritised basic sanitation in rural and underserved areas, mobilised local leaders, and used data to track progress." He further noted, "Initiatives like these deliver huge benefits for public health, improve sanitation, and save lives by significantly reducing the burden of diseases such as diarrhoea and malnutrition."

Long-term Benefits for Communities
The WHO chief acknowledged the long-term contributions of the Swachh Bharat initiative to the well-being and socio-economic development of communities across India. He also commented on the Ayushman Bharat national health protection scheme, highlighting its alignment with the mission's goals. "Alongside the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, this initiative demonstrates your excellencies' commitment to improving the health and well-being of India's huge population," he said.

A Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi
Earlier in the day, marking the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to India's founding father. He took to social media platform X to share, “Today, on Gandhi Jayanti, I took part in Swachhata-related activities with my young friends. I urge you all to also take part in some or the other such activity during the day and at the same time, keep strengthening the Swachh Bharat Mission. #10YearsOfSwachhBharat.”

Largest Behavioural Change Movement
The Swachh Bharat Mission, initiated in 2014 by Prime Minister Modi, aimed to make India Open Defecation Free (ODF). This massive undertaking has successfully mobilised nationwide participation, making it the largest behavioural change movement globally. By 2019, the mission celebrated the construction of over 100 million individual household toilets, declaring more than six lakh villages ODF—a fitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary.

Ghebreyesus concluded his remarks by thanking India: "Thank you for your leadership, and may your achievement be an inspiration for the world."

IANS