Innovating Livelihoods through Formal SHG Engagement in Public WASH Services A Case from Small and Medium Towns of Maharashtra
Innovating Livelihoods through Formal SHG Engagement in Public WASH Services A Case from Small and Medium Towns of Maharashtra
Author : Arwa Bharmal, Kasturi Joshi
December 12, 2025
India has over 4,000 small and medium towns governed by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), the
third tier of government. ULBs are responsible for delivering essential municipal services
such as water supply, sanitation, waste management, urban planning, and infrastructure
maintenance.
Launched in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) placed a strong emphasis on Water,
Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, aiming to make India Open DefecationFree (ODF) and improve overall sanitation. In the initial phase, SBM provided ULBs with
dedicated funds to subsidise household toilet construction and for the construction and
repair of Community and Public Toilets (CT/PTs). Additionally, to address Faecal Sludge and
Septage Management (FSSM) and wastewater management, ULBs were directed to construct
Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs), Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), and greywater
treatment facilities.
While the infrastructure creation has been substantial, the larger challenge has been its
operation and maintenance. Many facilities have become underutilised and non-functional
shortly after commissioning due to poor operation and maintenance issues.
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