Topic : GS-1: population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
1. Shall urban India focus beyond toilets to address sanitation woes? Give arguments in support of the opinion. Suggest measures to make urban India open-defecation free. (250 words)
Reference: Hindustan Times
Why the question:
Result of Swachh Survekshan 2020 will be announced today, thus the context of the question.
Key Demand of the question:
The question is intended to anticipate the need to recognize sanitation woes beyond toilets in the country.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by defining what you understand by sanitation in detail.
Body:
Sanitation is intrinsically linked to health, and unless faecal waste is treated properly and disposed of safely, it will find its way back into the food chain. In India, there is increasing awareness about the importance of using toilets, largely due to flagship programme Swachh Bharat Mission launched in 2014.
Then move onto discuss India’s approach to sanitation and related issues.
Explain the problems with focusing on toilets alone.
Discuss why India needs to focus beyond toilets.
Conclusion:
Conclude with efforts of the government in this direction, suggest solutions.
