Sustainable Access to Clean Water and Sanitation
Access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is not just a necessity—it is a fundamental pillar of public health and human dignity. Recognizing its critical role, the United Nations introduced the WASH initiative in 1988 to promote safe sanitation practices worldwide. Sustainable Development Goal 6 underscores the importance of ensuring universal access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene to enhance well-being and prevent disease.
At Sewa International, we are committed to fostering a healthier future by actively implementing WASH initiatives. These initiatives focus on infrastructure development, awareness campaigns, and behavioral change programs. Our efforts extend to improving menstrual hygiene awareness, promoting sustainable sanitation practices, and enhancing access to clean water, particularly in underserved communities.
Why WASH?
Neglecting proper WASH practices has far-reaching consequences, contributing to the spread of infectious diseases such as pneumonia, respiratory illnesses, diarrhea, and parasitic infestations. In 2010, the United Nations recognized Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation as a Human Right (HRTWS), thus reinforcing the global commitment to ensuring safe, affordable, and accessible water and sanitation for all.
Investing in WASH not only prevents disease but also strengthens education systems, empowers communities, and promotes gender equality, therefore making it a key driver of sustainable development.
Sewa International’s WASH Initiatives
Sewa International is dedicated to improving WASH conditions at the grassroots level, particularly for adolescents and marginalized communities. Our interventions focus on:
- Menstrual Hygiene Awareness – Providing essential knowledge and resources to young girls, ensuring dignity and better health.
- School Sanitation Programs – Conducting school cleaning drives and engaging students in maintaining hygienic environments.
- Community Training & Institutional Strengthening – Empowering local communities through training and engagement, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Currently, our WASH programs are actively operational in Delhi, Karnataka and Maharashtra, creating lasting impact through:
11,900+ students actively participating in school cleaning drives
20,000+ students sensitized on menstrual health and hygiene
(Add more impact data, refer to Page 58 of the Annual Report.)
Glimpses from the Field
(Paste pictures taken by Kunal ji during his visit to delhi schools)