On the occasion of the 82nd birth anniversary of global sanitation pioneer, Padma Vibhushan Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, Sulabh International on Wednesday inaugurated the Dr Bindeshwar Pathak Memorial Centre and unveiled his statue at the Sulabh Gram campus in New Delhi. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India, along with Union Minister Giriraj Singh, Minister of State Ram Nath Thakur and Bihar Government Minister Nitish Mishra.

Recalling the transformative contributions of Dr Pathak, the former President emphasised the importance of integrating the Sociology of Sanitation as a field of academic study in Indian universities. He also called for the adoption of Dr Pathak’s values and philosophy within the broader framework of social sciences.

In a special message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dr Pathak as a “pioneering Swachhagrahi” who revolutionised India’s sanitation landscape. “Dr Bindeshwar Pathak introduced cost-effective, eco-friendly sanitation solutions that enhanced public health and upheld human dignity. Working in the field of sanitation is never easy — it demands deep commitment. Despite initial ridicule and social stigma, Bindeshwarji remained unwavering in his dedication, guided by the single-minded philosophy of ‘One Life, One Mission,” Modi stated.

The PM noted, “May this Memorial Centre continue to carry forward Dr Pathak’s remarkable work. I am confident that it will foster new learnings and preserve his enduring legacy.”

Kumar Dilip, President of Sulabh International, eloquently captured the spirit of the occasion: “Dr Bindeshwar Pathak was not just the founder of Sulabh — he was the soul of a movement that restored dignity to millions. This Memorial Centre is our collective commitment to carry his mission forward.”