“Assessing Cleanliness and Sanitation Awareness: A Community-Level Study of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in Ujjain”

Abstract

This study examines the impact of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) on sanitation practices, public hygiene, and cleanliness awareness in India through a survey-based empirical analysis. Launched in 2014 by the Government of India, the initiative aims to eliminate open defecation, improve sanitation infrastructure, and promote behavioural change toward cleanliness and hygiene.Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through Google Forms, capturing responses from a diverse group of participants. The data were analysed using statistical tools such as mean, Z-test, ANOVA, and Chi-square test with the help of Microsoft Excel. These methods were applied to examine variations, relationships, and differences in sanitation-related indicators before and after the implementation of SBA.The results indicate a significant improvement in hygiene practices, increased awareness regarding sanitation, and a noticeable decline in open defecation. Statistical findings reveal meaningful differences in sanitation indicators across time periods, while ANOVA results confirm variations across demographic groups. The Chi-square analysis further establishes a significant association between SBA initiatives and improvements in public health and cleanliness outcomes.Despite these positive outcomes, the study identifies regional disparities in the effectiveness of the program, highlighting the need for targeted and context-specific interventions. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to strengthen sanitation strategies and ensure inclusive and sustainable development.