The report focused on inequalities in access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), which impeded the achievements of SDG 6 (Ensure access to water and sanitation for all).
Key Findings
- Global
- Open defecation: In low-income countries remain 4 times higher than the global average.
- Access to safe sanitation now 58%.
- Safely managed drinking water: Coverage rose from 68% (2015) to 74% (2024).
- Gendered burden: Emerging evidence as women spend more time fetching water.
- Menstrual health data: 70 countries shows widespread gaps across all income levels.
- India
- Open defecation: Significant progress but residual challenges remain in rural areas and among marginalised groups.
- Sanitation coverage: Near universal access to basic sanitation, but slippage in use and quality of waste management noted.
- Drinking water: Expanded household tap water connections.
- Safely managed drinking water remains below universal levels.
- Equity issues: Marginalised groups (tribal populations, poorest) lag in access.
WASH Initiatives in India
- Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): Eliminated open defecation. Also empowered women, ensured safety, reduced child mortality.
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to all households in rural India.
