Sikkim signs MoU with NIUA

GANGTOK: In a major move to enhance urban sanitation and wastewater management in Sikkim, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Sikkim Urban Development department and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) as an alliance partner of the National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (NFSSM).

State Urban Development secretary Jitendra Singh Raje and NIUA director Dr. Debolina Kundu signed the MoU on behalf of the respective parties. Urban Development department’s chief town planner Dinker Gurung and representatives of the NFSSM Alliance were present during the signing of the MoU which was followed by in person meeting to set the action plan, informs a press release.

The MoU is aimed at establishing a strong partnership between the State government and NIUA to support the implementation of the faecal sludge and septage management, an initiative focused on revolutionizing sanitation systems across the country.

“The collaboration with NIUA is also an integral part of the ‘Parvat Manthan’ initiative, which focuses on sustainable development of mountain States in India. The collaboration will also support the advancement of inclusive sanitation, fostering policy development, cross-learning, and strengthening ecosystems through engagement with governments at national, State and local levels,” the release states.

Furthermore, the Urban Development department said the alliance will leverage the technical expertise and best practices of its partner network, including support from the Melinda Gates Foundation and the Viega Foundation. This will ensure that Sikkim receives context-specific solutions and guidance to effectively address its sanitation challenges and promote sustainable urban development in newer geographies.

“As Sikkim celebrates the Golden Jubilee of its Statehood, the MoU signing marks a significant achievement in the State’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and advancing sanitation initiatives. The partnership with NIUA reaffirms the state's dedication to making substantial strides in faecal sludge and septage management, setting an example for other states and regions across the country. This initiative is aligned with Strategic Urban Vision Document SK-UD-2047 released by the UDD, Government of Sikkim on 15th August 2024.”