Bilha Nagar Panchayat in Chhattisgarh has made history by topping the Swachhata Survekshan 2024-25 in the category of towns with populations under 20,000. This remarkable accomplishment was recognized at a grand ceremony in New Delhi on July 17, 2025, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the award. Furthermore, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Bilha’s initiatives in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, praising the women’s innovative work in waste management.
The town, with a population of roughly 15,000, employs 28 sanitation workers. They utilize e-rickshaws for door-to-door waste collection and segregate waste at an SLRM center. Compost is made from wet waste, and dry waste is sold, providing financial independence to the women. Additionally, 10 sanitation commandos are deployed to ensure cleanliness through the use of tractors and auto tippers. The success of Bilha is a result of the collective efforts of its sanitation workers, officials, and elected representatives.
The award was based on an evaluation by the Ministry of Urban Development, assessing waste collection, road sweeping, waste disposal, and cleanliness of public facilities. Notable attendees at the ceremony included Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao and officials from Bilha Nagar Panchayat. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao celebrated this achievement, noting its importance for Chhattisgarh and its potential to encourage other urban areas. The recognition from PM Modi in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has amplified the national significance of Bilha’s accomplishments.