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Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Senior Executive Director, AIILSG, Mumbai Contributed to the Panel Discussion on 'Manhole to Machine Hole - SafaiMitra Suraksha' at National Knowledge Workshop on Advancing Safely Managed Sanitation in Urban Areas on World Toilet Day 2024
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On World Toilet Day 2024, Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Senior Executive Director of AIILSG, Mumbai, participated in the National Knowledge Workshop on Advancing Safely Managed Sanitation in Urban Areas. She contributed as a panelist in the session titled “Manhole to Machine Hole - SafaiMitra Suraksha,” she shared key insights on skilling of the sewer entry professionals and improving the welfare of sanitation workers across Maharashtra. The session was moderated by Mr. Rohit Kakkar, Deputy Advisor, CPHEEO, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). We deeply appreciate the opportunity to share our on-ground learnings and experiences dedicated to improving the lives of sanitation workers in the state. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to the Water Sanitation and Hygiene Institute (WASH Institute) for creating this platform to share experiences and amplify the voices of frontline workers.
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In this Issue:
- Swachhata Hi Seva 2024
- IFAT India 2024
- SafaiMitras
- Urban Rural Convergence in Fecal Sludge and Septage Management
- Localising Plastic Action through Communities (L-PAC)
- Celebration of Days
- RCUES Participation in Other Forums
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Welcoming Partnerships Under
Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition
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MoU with Messe Muenchen India Pvt. Ltd.
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We are pleased to announce the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Regional Centre for Urban and Environmental Studies (RCUES) of the All India Institute of Local Self-Government (AIILSG), Mumbai, and Messe Muenchen India Pvt. Ltd. Since its inception in 2018, this partnership has grown stronger, becoming a crucial platform for showcasing innovations in water, sewage, waste, and recycling. Our continued collaboration with IFAT India reaffirms our shared commitment to advancing sustainable WASH and environmental solutions. We continue to host insightful sessions on key topics such as used water management, localized climate action, and community engagement for inclusive action. This partnership remains aligned with our mission to promote sustainable practices and drive community-led change.
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MoU with Tisser Artisan Trust
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We are delighted to announce the signing of a non-financial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Regional Centre for Urban and Environmental Studies (RCUES) of the All India Institute of Local Self-Government (AIILSG), Mumbai, with Tisser Artisan Trust on 23rd September 2024. As the Secretariat of the Maharashtra Urban WASH & Environmental Sanitation Coalition, this collaboration seeks to promote a circular economy through waste management, livelihood generation, upskilling, and upcycling, creating dignified employment opportunities in the informal sector, particularly for women, to foster empowerment and economic inclusion. By embracing a circular economy approach, this partnership seeks to make meaningful strides in both environmental sustainability and socio-economic development. We are excited about the potential of this important initiative and look forward to a fruitful collaboration.
   
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MoU with Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation
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MoU with Satara Municipal Council
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RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, has signed an MoU with Satara Municipal Council (SMC) to mark a significant step toward integrating the innovative Localizing Plastic Action through Communities (LPAC) project into ongoing government initiatives. We are grateful for the opportunity to engage in an insightful discussion with Mr. Abhijeet Bapat, Chief Officer, SMC, during this collaboration. Together, we are excited to drive sustainable change and strengthen community-driven solutions! Following the signing, a focused meeting was held to discuss strategies for empowering Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by linking them with the NULM department, paving the way for impactful grassroots action.
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Swachhata Hi Seva 2024!
Engaged Around 9,000+ Children, Youth, Sanitation Workers, NGOs, Private Entities Across 10+ Districts in Maharashtra
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As the Swachhta Knowledge Partner (SKP) for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, documented the initiatives of the Maharashtra Urban WASH & ES Coalition and its development partners during the Swachhta Hi Seva 2024 campaign, held from September 17 to October 2, 2024. In collaboration with Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Satara Municipal Council, and Indapur Municipal Council, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, led various activities across urban areas in Maharashtra. Over 9,000 participants, including school students, youth, sanitation workers, government officials, and private entities, were engaged through more than 30 activities across 10+ districts in Maharashtra during the Swachhta Hi Seva 2024 campaign. Additionally, RCUES documented the efforts of the Coalition’s development partners, Green Clubs, and Urban Local Bodies.
   
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Satara ULB Implemented Activities Under SHS Campaign with the Support of RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai
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RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai conducted sessions with Sanitation Workers on importance of PPE kits and Social Security Schemes in collaboration with Satara Municipal Council. The Sanitation Workers were provided with Reflective Jackets, gloves and masks after the session.
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Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Implemented Activities under SHS Campaign with the Support of RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai
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The Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir, organized by Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) at Kamgar Bhavan, Thergaon, saw the health checkup of over 1,500 Safai Mitras. During the event, the RCUES team of AIILSG, Mumbai, contributed by conducting informative sessions on key topics such as Social Protection Schemes, importance of health for sanitation workers, and the critical role of Personal Protective Equipment. (PPE).
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Bin it to Win it - RCUES of AIILSG Mumbai conducted awareness sessions with schools children, youth and teachers on segregation of waste to inculcate green habits through interactive games in collaboration with Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation.
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Indapur Municipal Council With Support From RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, Organized Activities Under SHS Campaign On Urban-Rural Convergence
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At the Indapur Municipal Council, an Information-Education-Communication (IEC) session was conducted specifically for FSTP Operators and Gram Panchayat Adhikaris,
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focusing on the importance of Urban-Rural Convergence in Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) and the importance of regular desludging.
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Youth-led Action On Waste Management by Green Clubs
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Activities by the Development Partners:
Making The Difference
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As part of the Maha-UWES-C initiative, our partner NGO, Making The Difference, organized a beach clean-up drive at Uttan, successfully collecting and processing 37 tons of waste in collaboration with the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation.
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Additionally, a Plog run was held to raise awareness about plastic waste management. These impactful activities, led by our development partner, aim to promote environmental sustainability and community engagement in waste reduction efforts.
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Activities by the Development Partners:
Swachata Savardhan Sanstha Mahasangh
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As part of the SafaiMitra Suraksha Shivir initiative, a training program was held for 32 sanitation workers and 32 caretakers, in collaboration with 18 Community-Based Organizations and 11 executive members of the Swachata Savardhan Sanstha Mahasangh in Mumbai. This program is designed to enhance waste management practices and empower local communities to actively contribute to creating cleaner, healthier urban environment.
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Activities Held At All India Institute of Local Self-Government, Bandra Office
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IFAT India 2024 Exhibition
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Program 1: Closing the Loop: Policy, Technical, and Technological Gaps in Used Water Management (UWM).
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Panel Discussion on 'Closing the Loop: Policy, Technical, and Technological Gaps in Used Water Management (UWM)'.
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RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai was thrilled to have inaugurated IFAT India 2024 with a thought-provoking panel discussion on "Closing the Loop: Policy, Technical, and Technological Gaps in Used Water Management (UWM)." Leaders from government, academia, corporations, and field practitioners discussed policies, on-ground challenges, strategies and approaches for sustainable used-waste management. This panel was moderated by Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director, AIILSG, Mumbai and Director, Secretariat, Maha Urban WASH-ES Coalition (RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai).
Our panelists included Mr. Rohit Kakkar, Deputy Advisor, and Mr. Prasanta Mohapatra, Senior Expert, CPHEEO, MoHUA, GoI, New Delhi, Former Engineer-in-Chief, WSSBH, UDD, Govt. of Odisha, Dr. Pradip Kalbar, Associate Professor, Environmental Science and Engineering, IIT Bombay, Dr. Sumita Singhal, Program Manager, CSE, New Delhi, Mr. Dhruv Bhavsar,
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Senior Program Lead, C-WAS, CEPT, CRDF, Ahmedabad and Dr. Ajit Salvi, Director, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, Former Deputy Chief Engineer (Sewerage Operation), BMC.
Highlights included:
- Recent policy advancements in UWM and FSSM
- Challenges for small and medium towns in UWM and FSSM
- Sustainable approaches and the mix of centralized and decentralized sanitation systems
- Feasibility of Co-treatment of faecal sludge at STPs
- Resource recovery and financing in UWM
- Sanitation and - Urban-rural convergence Worker’s safety
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Program 2: Localizing Climate Action and Leveraging Climate Finance
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Seminar on 'Localizing Climate Action and Leveraging Climate Finance'.
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Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director at AIILSG and Director of the Secretariat for the Maha Urban WASH-ES Coalition (RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai), moderated the session on ‘Localizing Climate Action And Leveraging Climate Finance’ commenced with keynote addresses from esteemed leaders, offering invaluable perspectives on Maharashtra’s climate agenda: Dr. Jairaj Phatak, IAS (Retd.), Director General, All India Institute of Local Self Government; Mr. Sudhakar Bobade, Mission Director, Majhi Vasundhara Abhiyan, Department of Environment and Climate Change (DoECC), Government of Maharashtra; and Mr. Abhijit Ghorpade, Director, State Climate Action Cell, DoECC, Government of Maharashtra.
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Presentations on 'Localizing Climate Action And Leveraging Climate Finance' by Development Partners.
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The program featured detailed presentations on Climate Action in Maharashtra by distinguished sector experts: Dr. Eshwer Kale, Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR) on integrating ecosystem-based adaptation into state policies to promote long-term water resilience. Dr. Kajok Engtipi, Jhpiego, on enhancing climate resilience in health systems and mainstreaming public health in state climate action plans. Dr. Pushp Bajaj, PhD, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) on the strategic framework of the Maharashtra State Action Plan on Climate Change 2.0. Ms. Upasana Yadav, Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS), CRDF, CEPT University on advancing carbon-neutral WASH infrastructure across small and medium towns in Maharashtra. Ms. Dipti Salvi, C40 Cities on climate budgeting across various cities in Maharashtra. Ms. Smera Chawla, Maharashtra Plastic Action Partnership (M-PAP) on multi-stakeholder collaboration to address plastic pollution in Maharashtra. Ms. Gauri Atre, WRI India on building capacity in climate finance and enhancing inter-departmental coordination across ULBs in Maharashtra.
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Panel Discussion on 'Localizing Climate Action and Leveraging Climate Finance'.
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The panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Yusuf Kabir, WASH Specialist and Focal Point for Climate, Environment, DRR, UNICEF Maharashtra, featured senior government officials and focused on the imperative to localize climate action and mobilize climate finance. Panelists included Mr. Nandkumar Gurav, Technical Advisor, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, Mr. Nikhil Mene, Sub-Engineer, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Mr. Abhijit Ghorpade, Director, State Climate Action Cell, Department of Environment and Climate Change (DoECC), Government of Maharashtra, and
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Mr. Sudhakar Bobade, Mission Director, Majhi Vasundhara Abhiyan, DoECC, Government of Maharashtra. This session marked a pivotal step in aligning local efforts with Maharashtra’s climate goals, emphasizing the essential role of finance in advancing sustainable solutions.
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Program 3: Youth Driving Water Solutions: Innovation, Education and Action
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Panel Discussion on 'Youth Driving Water Solutions: Innovation, Education and Action'.
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In this panel discussion on ‘Youth Driving Water Solutions: Innovation, Education and Action’ the opening address was given by Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director, AIILSG, Mumbai and Director, Secretariat of Maha-Urban WASH & ES Coalition. The session was moderated by our youth, Ms. Shruti Joshi, Communication & Research Associate, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai as she hosted the discussion on how youth are driving transformative change in water management through education, innovation, and collaboration.
The esteemed panelists included Dr. Suma Nair, Professor & Dean, DYPU School of Public Health, D Y Patil University, Navi Mumbai, Dr. Mona Iyer, Professor, Faculty of Planning, CEPT University, Mr. Suyash S. Agrawal (GCB.D), Co-founder, DialESG and Bharat Clean Rivers Foundation, Mr. Rishabh Ravichandran, Social Entrepreneur and Co-Founder, Ekatvam Innovations, Mr. Sangram Patil, Director, Bit Bison Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, Dr. Eshwer Kale, Thematic Lead, Water Resource Development & Governance, Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR),
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Program 4: Emerging Opportunities For Corporate Collaborations: Climate, Environment and WASH
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Session on 'Emerging Opportunities For Corporate Collaborations: Climate, Environment and WASH'.
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On October 17, the Secretariat hosted a highly impactful program titled ‘Emerging Opportunities for Corporate Collaborations: Climate, Environment and WASH’ at IFAT India 2024. This event served as a powerful call to action for corporates and development partners to collaborate in supporting local governments across Maharashtra to improve service delivery in the WASH sector and advance environmental sustainability. Our esteemed keynote speakers were Mr. E Ravendiran, IAS, Mission Director, SBM (G), State Water and Sanitation Mission, WSSD, GoM, Dr. Jairaj Phatak (IAS Retd), AIILSG Mumbai, Mr. Sanjay Singh, Chief, UNICEF Maharashtra Field Office, Ms. Paramita Datta Dey, Head (Resources and Waste) and Program Lead, National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) who set the stage for the critical role of corporate partners in working alongside CSOs (Civil Society Organizations) to drive sustainable improvements in WASH and environmental initiatives.
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Presentation on 'Approach and Initiatives under the Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition'.
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Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director, AIILSG, Mumbai and Director, Secretariat, Maha Urban WASH-ES Coalition (RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai), delivered a presentation on the coalition's innovative approach and impactful initiatives. Her insights underscored the coalition’s commitment to transforming urban sanitation and water services across Maharashtra, paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future. She highlighted the coalition’s collaborative approach, noting opportunities to work together in advancing shared goals for urban sanitation and sustainability. If you're interested in joining the Coalition, please scan the code and complete the Expression of Interest form.
 Scan Here!
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Panel Discussion on 'Emerging Opportunities for Corporate Collaborations:
Climate, Environment and WASH'.
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This panel discussion on ‘Emerging Opportunities for Corporate Collaborations: Climate, Environment and WASH’, moderated by Mr. Jaspreet Gurm, Partnership Specialist, UNICEF Maharashtra, discussed how multi-stakeholder collaboration within the coalition model is essential to creating long-lasting impact. Our panelists included, Mr. E Ravendiran, IAS, Mission Director, SBM (G), State Water and Sanitation Mission, WSSD, GoM, Ms. Mahreen Matto, Team Lead, NIUA, Dr. Megha Phansalkar, Founder, Tisser Artisan Trust Pvt. Ltd., Ms. Kaveri Dhawan, Manager, Dasra, Mr. Nitin Wadhwani, Founder, Director & CEO, Citizen Association for Child Rights, Ms. Priyanka Chadha, Associate Principal, Sattva Consulting.
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Felicitation of Maharashtra Urban WASH & ES Coalition Partners
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As the Secretariat of the Maharashtra Urban WASH & ES Coalition at RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, we were proud to honor our diverse partners from government agencies and development partners to frontline workers, whose invaluable contributions have been central to the coalition's achievements. Looking forward, the Maha Urban WASH-ES Coalition is dedicated to strengthening partnerships that improve WASH service delivery and advance environmental sanitation across Maharashtra.
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Urban Local Bodies
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Solid Waste Management Team
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Community Based Organizations
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Program 5: The Multiplier Effect: Impact of Women Role Models in Sustainability
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Panel Discussion on 'The Multiplier Effect: Impact of Women Role Models in Sustainability'.
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Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director, AIILSG, Mumbai, and Director, Secretariat M-UWES-C at RCUES of AIILSG Mumbai, contributed as a panelist in the session on “The Multiplier Effect: Impact of Women Role Models in Sustainability.”
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She highlighted women’s leadership in the WASH sector with inspiring examples from Maharashtra, and stressed the importance of streamlining information on policies and schemes to improve beneficiaries' access to essential support.
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Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition - AIILSG Booth at IFAT
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At the IFAT India 2024 Exhibition, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai set up an interactive booth to showcase its latest publications, research findings, and ongoing urban development projects. The booth highlighted initiatives on sustainable urban solutions, water
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management, and environmental practices tailored to India's evolving urban landscape.It attracted esteemed visitors and industry experts, who discussed the importance of these initiatives for advancing sustainable urban growth across Maharashtra.
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Voices of 1000+ Sanitation Workers: Recall Survey Insights from State-wide Intensive Training Program On Occupational Safety and Dignity for Sanitation Workers in Maharashtra
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Urban-Rural Convergence for Fecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM)
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WSSD and UDD Collaborated for Achieving Safe Sanitation across Maharashtra, Bridging Urban-Rural Divide through Convergent Approach under Swachh Bharat Mission
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Mr. E. Ravendiran, IAS, Mission Director, and Mr. Shekhar Raundal, Additional Mission Director of the State Water and Sanitation Mission of Water Supply and Sanitation Department (WSSD), along with Mr. Navnath Wath, State Mission Director of the Swachh Maharashtra Mission Urban of Urban Development Department (UDD), Government of Maharashtra, led a joint review meeting with urban and rural authorities to assess the progress of implementation a convergent approach for used water and faecal sludge management. During the meeting, Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Senior Executive Director at AIILSG, Mumbai, presented the learnings, strategies, and tools developed under the Maharashtra Urban WASH & ES Coalition, in consultation with WSSD and UDD. The RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai with support from UNICEF Maharashtra, are proud to contribute as the technical support unit to both departments in this innovative initiative under SBM (U) and (G).
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Optimum Utilisation of Existing Infrastructure of FSSM - Urban Rural Convergence and Refurbishment of Existing FSTP
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Scaling-up of Urban-Rural Convergence in 7 clusters of Maharashtra
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Stakeholder Consultation
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Facilitating MoU Signing between Urban and Rural Local Bodies
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Highlights of Implementation Strategies:
- GIS Mapping of the FSSM Data - Individual HH Toilets, FSTP mapping, desludging routes and planning etc.
- IEC in SHGs and NGOs of Engagement
- Capacity building of local stakeholders
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Key Highlights for Refurbishment
- Detail assessment of 53 FSTPs from 11 Districts of Maharashtra with focus on Institutional, Technical, Operational and Financial aspects
- Publication on the assessment in UNICEF Global WASH database
- Developed FSTP Refurbishment Estimation Tool
- Developed Desludging Charges Calculation Tool For Urban and Rural for URC
- Pilot projects: Refurbishment with technology upgradation at two ULBs
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Refreshers Training On Occupational Safety and Dignity for Sanitation Workers (SWs) At Indapur
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On 27th August 2024, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai visited the Indapur Municipal Council and conducted an on-site refresher training as part of the Safai Mitra Suraksha initiative. This session, held at the Indapur solid waste dumping site, focused on occupational safety and the dignity of SWs. 14 SWs participated in the training, which aimed to enhance their awareness of health and safety protocols critical to their daily tasks.
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Through interactive discussions and practical demonstrations, the workers revisited essential safety practices, empowering them to maintain their well-being while carrying out their vital work.
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Enhancing Skills and Knowledge: Refresher Training on Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) Operations and Maintenance at Indapur
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A refresher training session on the operation and maintenance (O&M) of the Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) was conducted at Indapur. The training aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of the staff responsible for managing the facility.
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It featured interactive discussions and hands-on demonstrations to improve their understanding of key processes and operational best practices.
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Capacity Building Trainings on Mobile Applications for URC in FSSM
(Rahuri, Bhadrawati, Indapur)
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Rahuri - RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai has initiated capacity-building training for 42 surveyors (ASHA workers, members of the Gram Panchayat and volunteers) from 30 villages in the Deolali Pravara District, under Rahuri Panchayat Samiti, focusing on the mobile app for URC in FSSM. The purpose of this application is to conduct household survey for Individual toilet data. The sessions were graced by the presence of Mr. Sudhakar Munde, Group Development Officer, who underscored the critical importance of faecal sludge waste management, and Mr. Sachin Thorat, District SBM Coordinator from the District Water and Sanitation Mission Cell, who outlined the objectives of the training. Mr. Sagar Patil, Senior Technical Officer from RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, led the sessions, offering detailed insights into the mobile app, conducting practical demonstrations, addressing participant queries, and ensuring a comprehensive understanding among the surveyors.
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Bhadrawati - Mr. Anwaar Ashraf, Senior Technical Consultant at RCUES of AIILSG Mumbai, conducted an orientation session for 46 participants from 27 participating Gram Panchayats on the use of the mobile app for FSSM. The participants were nominated by Gram Sevak which were mainly ASHA Workers, SHGs, and students from Mukhyamantri Yuva Karya Prashikshan Scheme. The two-hour training session was attended by Ms. Sapna Puramshettiwar, Block Resource Coordinator and Mr. Shriram Thool, Cluster Coordinator from Bhadrawati Panchayat Samiti and Mr. Kalim Sheikh, City Coordinator from Bhadrawati Municipal Council.
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Indapur - Ms. Arundhati Shinde, Research Associate from RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai explaining digital interventions and spatial mapping developed in collaboration with Riddhis Foundation to Mr. Ramesh Dhage, Chief Officer, Indapur Municipal Council.
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Mr. Sachin Khude, Block Development Officer (BDO), Panchayat Samiti Indapur, discussing the status of MOU implementation and the responsibilities of Panchayat Samiti.
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Meeting with Gram Sevaks to discuss key points regarding the status of MoU implementation.
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Training on the mobile application for the surveyors by Ms. Arundhati Shinde, Research Associate, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai.
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One-on-one discussions with Gram Panchayat Samiti officials from two Gram Panchayats on MOU implementation status.
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Individual briefing with the SBM Coordinator on the Panchayat Samiti's responsibilities.
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Immediate Impact
Surveyors from Pandharwadi Gram Panchayat and Indapur Panchayat Samiti have promptly identified and booked 4 households for desludging during their survey.
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District Level Meetings for FSSM
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Manvat - In November, a consultative meeting on FSSM was convened at Panchayat Samiti Manvat under the leadership of Mr. Kendre, Deputy CEO of Swachh Bharat Mission. The session featured in-depth guidance from Mr. Deshpande, State Consultant from UNICEF Maharashtra, and Mr. Patil from RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, who provided actionable insights into the effective implementation of FSSM, training of the mobile application to conduct the household survey of individual toilet data.
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As part of the meeting, site visits were conducted to assess locations identified for FSSM initiatives. The meeting saw the participation of key stakeholders, including Mr. Kadam, Group Development Officer, Mr. Gaware from Manvat Municipal Council, Mr. Poddar, Extension Officer, Mr. Gawhane and Mr. Vishvambhare, Gram Panchayat officials, Mr. Halghe, Sociologist, Mr. Dongre, Group Coordinator and others from Panchayat Samiti.
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Publication on Exploring Opportunities For Optimum Utilization Of Existing FS Treatment Facilities Through Refurbishment Of FSTPs and Urban-Rural Convergence in FSSM, Maharashtra
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We are excited to share that the UNICEF Global WASH Bulletin for September 2024 highlights the pilot project led by RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, and UNICEF Maharashtra, in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra. Additionally, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai, and UNICEF Maharashtra conducted an on-field study across 53 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Maharashtra. This study aimed to review the existing Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) infrastructure and systems, identifying challenges and opportunities to strengthen FSSM through the refurbishment and augmentation of existing FSTPs and promoting Urban-Rural Convergence. The study focused on the technical, financial, and administrative aspects of the FSSM value chain i.e. containment, emptying, transportation, treatment, and reuse/disposal through field visits and stakeholder consultations. For more details on the initiative, click here.
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Launch of Localizing Plastic Action through Communities (L-PAC)
Achieving Plastic Circularity Through Youth, Children, And Communities as Agents of Change Contributing To Reduction In Air Pollution
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RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai is excited to announce the launch of Localizing Plastic Action through Communities (L-PAC), a transformative collaboration with Umicore Autocat India Private Limited under their visionary CSR initiative. This project is a crucial step in tackling the urgent challenges of plastic waste management and air pollution across cities in Maharashtra. Through L-PAC, we aim to redefine the plastic waste management landscape within local governments, youth and children championing sustainable practices including air quality monitoring and modelling that protect our environment and enhance community health. Dive into our newsletter to explore how L-PAC is set to transform local waste management systems, protect the environment, and improve public health. Let’s push the boundaries of sustainability, one community at a time! Know More.
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Celebration of Important Days
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RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai Leads Dialogue on Safely Managed Sanitation at National Workshop on World Toilet Day 2024
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On World Toilet Day 2024, Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Senior Executive Director of AIILSG, Mumbai, participated in the National Knowledge Workshop on Advancing Safely Managed Sanitation in Urban Areas. She contributed as a panelist in the session titled “Manhole to Machine Hole - SafaiMitra Suraksha,” where she shared key insights on skilling of the sewer entry professionals and improving the welfare of sanitation workers across Maharashtra. The session was moderated by Mr. Rohit Kakkar, Deputy Advisor, CPHEEO, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), provided a platform to discuss innovative approaches and solutions to critical challenges in sanitation management. We deeply appreciate the opportunity to share our on-ground learnings and experiences dedicated to improving the lives of sanitation workers in the state. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to Water Sanitation and Hygiene Institute (WASH Institute) for providing a platform to amplify the voices of frontline workers and for supporting efforts toward building inclusive, safe, and sustainable sanitation system.
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Our Compendium is now available on the
UNICEF Global WASH Bulletin September 2024
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Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition is pleased to announce that the Compendium of Good Practices on MHM Value Chain for A #PeriodFriendly Maharashtra - 10th Menstrual Hygiene Day, 28th May 2024 is now on the UNICEF Global WASH Bulletin September 2024 which is now accessible to world. The compendium captures the 16 good practices in accessibility to the menstrual absorbents, outreach in the community on MHM and waste management systems.
To learn more about these initiatives,
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Participation by RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai
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RCUES contributes to SWSM’s Malkapur Visit Inspiring Sustainable Sanitation Strategies Across Maharashtra
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State Water and Sanitation Mission (SWSM), GoM, conducted a successful exposure and learning visit in Malkapur, Satara District in Maharashtra. RCUES was pleased to consult and with 35 Deputy CEOs and 50+ technical experts from all over Maharashtra on Urban - Rural Convergence approach, exploring innovative sanitation solutions including co-treatment at STP and solid waste management. At the Satara ZP office, we discussed optimum utlisation of existing infrastructure for FSSM with nature-based technologies. The proactive steps taken by the government to advance sanitation solutions are commendable, and we are committed to support future collaborations to enhance sanitation across Maharashtra.
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RCUES Contributed to Data Management and Informed Decision Making in Solid Waste Management Workshop By DoECC, GOM In Collaboration with C40 Cities and MPAP
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Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Sr. Executive Director, RCUES of AIILSG, Mumbai and a key member of the Maharashtra Plastic Action Partnership (M-PAP), represented the Maha Urban WASH-ES Coalition as a panelist at the “Data Management and Informed Decision-Making in Solid Waste Management” workshop. Convened by the Department of Environment & Climate Change, Government of Maharashtra, with C40 Cities and M-PAP, the session aimed to address pressing challenges in data collection across urban sanitation systems. Ms. Kavadi spoke on the importance of standardized and transparent data to empower Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in directing effective investments. She shared insights on how collaboration with development partners and platforms like Maha Urban WASH-ES can streamline efforts for optimal service delivery. Emphasizing the need to extend beyond ranking metrics, she advocated for comprehensive data that captures both achievements and learning opportunities, ultimately supporting ULBs in achieving sustainable, data-driven development.
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RCUES Contributes In Strategic Workshop On Sanitation Knowledge Sharing
by CEPT University
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On 27th and 28th September 2024, Ms. Utkarsha Kavadi, Senior Executive Director of AIILSG, Mumbai and Director of the Secretariat for M-UWES-C, along with Ms. Prachi Mendhe, Programme Manager at RCUES of AIILSG Mumbai, actively participated in a two-day workshop hosted by CEPT University in its capacity as the Regional Coordinator for the GSGS India Regional Hub (Asia 1). As a member of the GSGS India Hub, RCUES contributed significantly to the strategy development discussions.
The workshop convened esteemed representatives from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), IHE Delft, partner universities, and potential collaborating organizations.
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RCUES played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction for the India Regional Hub for the coming years, focusing on areas such as governance, sustainability, operational frameworks, strategic development, and implementation plans.
This event marked a vital milestone in strengthening regional knowledge-sharing initiatives in sanitation, paving the way for enhanced collaboration, capacity building, and impactful implementation across the sector.
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Team Secretariat of Maha-UWES-C
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Our Team Is Making Waves!
Dive In and Meet Our Newest Members!
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Elated to share that the Secretariat of the Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition is established at the RCUES of AIILSG Mumbai. The Secretariat works with various development partners in coordination with local governments on different projects across urban Maharashtra.
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