Sulabh International

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A delegation of sanitary workers from various parts of the country working with the Sulabh International with the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, in New Delhi on 16, May 2006

Sulabh International is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in India, which works to promote human rights, environmental sanitation, non-conventional sources of energy, waste management, and social reforms through education. It was founded by Bindeshwar Pathak in 1970.

History

Sulabh International was established in 1970 by Bindeshwar Pathak, a sociologist and social reformer. The organization was created to address the issues of sanitation and the plight of manual scavengers in India. Over the years, Sulabh has grown into a large-scale movement, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and promoting sustainable sanitation solutions.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Sulabh International include:

• Eradication of manual scavenging
• Promotion of sanitation and hygiene
• Development of non-conventional energy sources
• Waste management and recycling
• Social reform and education

Key Initiatives

Sanitation

Sulabh International is renowned for its work in the field of sanitation. The organization has constructed over 1.5 million household toilets and 8,500 public toilets across India. The Sulabh Shauchalaya model, a two-pit pour-flush toilet, is one of its most significant contributions to improving sanitation in rural and urban areas.

Manual Scavengers Rehabilitation

Sulabh has been instrumental in rehabilitating thousands of manual scavengers by providing them with alternative livelihoods and education. The organization runs several vocational training centers to help former scavengers acquire new skills and integrate into mainstream society.

Environmental Initiatives

Sulabh International is involved in various environmental initiatives, including the promotion of biogas plants and the use of solar energy. The organization has set up numerous biogas plants that convert human waste into biogas, which can be used for cooking and lighting.

Education and Social Reform

Sulabh runs several educational programs aimed at promoting literacy and social awareness among marginalized communities. The organization also advocates for the rights of women and children, working to eliminate social evils such as child marriage and gender discrimination.

Awards and Recognition

Sulabh International and its founder, Bindeshwar Pathak, have received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to sanitation and social reform. Some of the notable awards include the Stockholm Water Prize, the Padma Bhushan, and the Gandhi Peace Prize.

See Also

• Sanitation in India
• Manual scavenging
• Biogas
• Bindeshwar Pathak
• Non-governmental organization