Correct Option
The correct option is (a) 1 only.
Explanation
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched on October 2, 2014, as a nationwide campaign to achieve universal sanitation coverage and eliminate open defecation. It operates through two sub-missions: SBM-Gramin (Rural) and SBM-Urban, focusing on infrastructure creation and behavioral change regarding hygiene.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: One of the primary objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission is to bring about a behavioral change in people regarding healthy sanitation practices. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities are integral to the mission to generate awareness on sanitation and hygiene.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The mission is not restricted to schools. While the "Swachh Vidyalaya" initiative was a specific campaign under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (now Ministry of Education) to ensure toilets in all schools, the broader SBM covers households, community complexes, and public toilets across rural and urban areas.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Sanitation is a State subject under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. The Swachh Bharat Mission is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, meaning it is implemented through a partnership between the Central Government, State Governments, and Local Bodies (Gram Panchayats and Municipalities). Local bodies play a critical role in planning and implementation.
Key Takeaway: The Swachh Bharat Mission is a comprehensive sanitation program involving the Centre, States, and Local Bodies, aimed at achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status through infrastructure development and behavioral change, not limited to any single institution like schools.