Open defecation poses severe health and hygiene risks, particularly for rural and underserved populations. It contributes to the spread of waterborne diseases, compromises environmental cleanliness, and endangers safety and dignity, especially for women and children.
In alignment with the Government's flagship "Swachch Bharat Mission," the Jindal Foundation launched an Open Defecation Free (ODF) Programme, aimed at constructing toilets for communities and schools. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with district administrations and local village committees, leverages the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach, coupled with Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) to encourage sustained use of toilets. The Foundation also focuses on spreading awareness, constructing new infrastructure, and renovating existing toilets, while ensuring ongoing follow-up to monitor and maintain the ODF status.