What is the National WASH Conclave?

The National WASH Conclave 2022 with the theme – “WASH Forward: Advancing Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Panchayats” was aimed at bringing Government and all sector players on a platform to deliberate, reflect, share and learn from experiences on effective delivery of WASH services by Panchayats including ways to improve resilience to future pandemics and major disruptions, including climate change. This conclave was organized by NIRDPR in collaboration with MoJS, MoPR, UNICEF, WaterAid and other development partners and organizations from 23 to 25 February 2022 through a virtual platform.

Why is it important?

Sustainable Development Goal 6 is a global commitment to ensure safe drinking water and sanitation for all. Since the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission-II and Jal Jeevan Mission, there has been steady progress in achieving ODF plus villages and providing Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) respectively.

However, there is a need for a consistent drive for change management, improved capacities of various stakeholder groups, convergence at all levels and a robust monitoring system to achieve objectives of these flagship programs. There is a greater need for collaboration among government, development partners, civil society and the private sector to build capacities and empower Panchayats to plan, implement and manage WASH facilities and services.

There is an urgent need to invest in the capacities of Panchayats to plan, design and manage WASH efforts. Gaps in skills and in the availability of trained personnel - accountable and available to Panchayats need to be ensured.
VK Madhavan - Chief Executive, WaterAid India

Objectives of the Conclave

A young girl drinks water from a tap set up in her colony

Deliberate on sector approaches and strategies for improved and sustainable WASH services by Panchayats.

A wall painting describing best handwashing practices

Facilitate learning and sharing of best practices of various WASH programs for scaling up.

Children in a slum in Delhi practice good handwashing

Discuss and agree on a ‘Call for Action’ for advancing WASH in Panchayats by all sector players.

Photograph 5 Village Health Sanitation Nutrition Committee (VHSNC) meeting at Budihal village

Identifying gaps in skills and availability of trained personnel across Panchayats.

Panel members share insights and experience during the 3-day National WASH Conclave
 

Publications