National Bal Swachhta Mission
The National Bal Swachhta Mission (NBSM) is an initiative launched by the Government of India aimed at promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation among children in the country. The mission was launched on 14th November 2014, on the occasion of Children’s Day, to coincide with the birthday of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who had immense love for children.
Objectives of National Bal Swachhta Mission:
1. Promote Cleanliness: The primary objective of the mission is to instill good hygiene habits and cleanliness practices among children from an early age.
2. Sanitation Awareness: NBSM aims to create awareness among children about the importance of sanitation and the proper use of toilets. This initiative is crucial in promoting the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign) launched by the Government of India.
3. Safe Drinking Water: Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is a key focus of the mission. Children are educated about the importance of drinking clean water to prevent waterborne diseases.
4. Handwashing Practices: Proper handwashing with soap is an essential habit to prevent the spread of diseases. The mission emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene and educates children about the correct handwashing techniques.
5. Health and Nutrition: NBSM also covers aspects related to the health and nutrition of children. It encourages the consumption of nutritious food and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
6. Environmental Awareness: Children are educated about environmental conservation, waste management, and the importance of keeping their surroundings clean.
NBSM’s Implementation:
The National Bal Swachhta Mission is implemented through various activities in schools and educational institutions across the country. These activities include awareness campaigns, interactive sessions, educational workshops, and competitions related to cleanliness and hygiene. Schools often organize events where students actively participate in cleaning their school premises and surrounding areas, reinforcing the importance of cleanliness.
By focusing on children, the mission aims to create a generation that understands the significance of hygiene and sanitation, leading to a cleaner and healthier nation in the future.