Observing World Sanitation Day 2024: Seminar on Creating an Open Defecation-Free Society

Coimbatore: The Institute of Research and Development for the Rural Poor-Trust (IRDRP Trust), in collaboration with the Consortium of Health Associations International Covai Zone, and Coimbatore District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) observed World Sanitation Day 2024 with a seminar titled “ Creating an Open Defecation-Free Society in India.” The event was held at the DRDA Panchayat Training Hall Coimbatore in partnership with the Suez Foundation India.

The seminar brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, development experts, and community leaders, to discuss best practices and challenges in achieving sanitation goals.

The event was presided over by the District Collector, Sri Kranthi Kumar Pati, I.A.S., along with the Additional Collector, Mrs. Sweta Suman, I.A.S., DRDA Coimbatore. Joining them were Mr. Sangram Pattanayak, Project Director, 24x7 Water Supply Project, Coimbatore, Suez India; Dr. Irudayasamy from IRDRP; and Dr. Devaraj, Former Director, UNICEF, who contributed their insights and support to the seminar.

The seminar served as a platform for discussions on improving sanitation in tribal, rural, and urban slum areas. It featured presentations on innovative solutions and impactful initiatives to promote sustainable sanitation practices. A keynote session by Mr. Sangram Pattanayak highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure uninterrupted 24x7 drinking water supply in Coimbatore.

As part of its sanitation drive, the IRDRP Trust, in partnership with the Suez Foundation, is constructing and repairing 350 household toilets across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. It is also installing seven community Reverse Osmosis water plants to provide clean drinking water and produce reusable, washable cloth pads to promote menstrual hygiene.

Experts from the Karpagam Academy of Higher Education Dr. Baskar, Dr. Dharmaraj, Mr. Arun, Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board and Dr. Darwin Moses Cognizant Outreach shared insights and success stories from various sanitation programs, inspiring participants with proven strategies and outcomes.

The seminar witnessed enthusiastic participation from women group leaders, Panchayat representatives, students, and NGOs, emphasizing the collective effort required to achieve an Open Defecation-Free society in India.