Sulabh Sanitation Club Promotes Hand Hygiene on Global Handwashing Day in Sikkim
Pakyong, Sikkim | October 14, 2026
On the eve of Global Handwashing Day, the Sulabh Sanitation Club, in collaboration with Alkem Foundation, dedicated a refurbished Group Handwashing Station at PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Rangpo, Sikkim, on October 14, 2026. The initiative aimed to strengthen school hygiene infrastructure and encourage regular handwashing practices among students.
The programme was attended by Mr. K. K. Sharma, Joint Director, Rangpo Sub-Division Education Office, who emphasised the importance of adequate handwashing facilities in government schools for safeguarding students' health.
Mr. Rupak Roy Choudhury, National Coordinator, Sulabh Sanitation Club, highlighted the importance of making handwashing with soap a regular part of students' daily routines. Mrs. Samikshya Das of the Sulabh Sanitation Club drew attention to the health risks associated with poor hand hygiene, particularly before meals. Referring to swab tests conducted among schoolchildren, she noted the presence of harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, reinforcing the need for consistent handwashing practices.
Representing Alkem Foundation, Mr. Samir Kumar, HR Manager, spoke about the role of CSR partnerships in improving school sanitation infrastructure and promoting sustainable hygiene practices.
Students actively participated in the programme through awareness speeches, handwashing demonstrations and cultural presentations, reinforcing the importance of personal hygiene and healthy habits.
The refurbished Group Handwashing Station will enable multiple students to wash their hands simultaneously, particularly before mid-day meals and after using the toilet. By improving access to handwashing facilities, the initiative is expected to encourage better hygiene practices and help reduce the risk of infections.
The initiative reflected the continued commitment of the Sulabh Sanitation Club and Alkem Foundation to promoting school WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) and creating healthier learning environments for children across Sikkim.
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