Bindeshwar Pathak

Social reformer who revolutionized sanitation in India through affordable toilet technology

Bindeshwar Pathak (born 15 June 1934) is an Indian social reformer and founder of Sulabh International, an NGO dedicated to improving sanitation and dignity for millions. His innovative composting toilet design, developed in the 1970s, provided a low-cost alternative to open defecation, addressing India's sanitation crisis without requiring water or sewers. Pathak's work helped eliminate the degrading practice of 'manual scavenging'—where Dalits were forced to clean human waste by hand. By 2020, Sulabh had built over 1.3 million household toilets and 7,500 public toilets across India. Pathak also pioneered community-led sanitation programs, training marginalized groups as plumbers and engineers to break caste barriers. His efforts reduced waterborne diseases and empowered women through health and privacy. Pathak's philosophy of 'sanitation as a human right' inspired global movements like the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 6. Explore his contributions at Sulabh International's official site or read his book The Good Life for insights into his transformative vision.