SBI pledges 20cr fund for toilets in primary schools

VARANASI: State Bank of India would spend Rs 20 crore on construction of toilets in primary schools of different states. The initiative was launched by SBI chairperson Arundhati Bhattacharya in Prime Minister's constituency on Friday by dedicating two toilets at a primary school in Shivpur locality. 

Arundhati Bhattacharya described the initiative as launch of a massive sanitation project across the country for making 'Swachh Bharat' campaign a reality. "The SBI has pledged to contribute to PM's call in a substantial way. We have launched a dedicated campaign to provide toilets in primary and middle schools, she said. 

In Varanasi and adjoining area as many as 64 toilets in 35 schools are being constructed. While construction is complete in 15 schools, the rest would be ready by June end, she said. 

Sulabh Sanitation Mission Foundation, a sister concern of Sulabh International, has been entrusted with the construction work. The foundation would also take care of the maintenance and educate students and teachers about the importance of cleaning and hygiene. Lauding the effort of low-cost sanitation expert Sulabh in improving sanitation scenario, she said, "We are confident that their expertise in this area will make the initiative a grand success." 

Sulabh Sanitation movement mentor Bindeshwar Pathak thanked SBI for the decision and hoped that such initiatives would boost Modi's 'Clean India' dream. 

Sulabh's commitment to cleanliness in the historic city of Varanasi is not new. The organisation has been operating public toilets for decades and maintaining some of the ghats. Recently, Sulabh cleaned Assi Ghat. The cleaning of Kashi Viswanath Temple is also being done by the organisation. The programme was attended by teachers and schoolchildren. 

A short film on sanitation with Modi's message was also screened on the occasion. Later, in another programme Bhattacharya donated a mobile medical van to Helpage India. This van would serve to the needs of the poor and underprivileged people. She also donated laser therapy machine, ECG equipment, advanced computer, one microscope and generator to Mata Anandmai Hospital in Bhadaini area. 

Modi had launched Swachha Bharat campaign in the city at Assi Ghat on November 8, 2014. Later, he had also gone to 

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