Women self-help groups (SHGs) can play a crucial role in improving sanitation services in Indian cities. Here are some ways they can contribute:

• Educating the community about the importance of sanitation and hygiene practices like hand washing and waste disposal.
• Formulating plans to construct and maintain public toilets that cater to the needs of women and children, who typically suffer the most during open defecation.
• Mobilising resources and funds to implement new sanitation projects via microfinance and saving schemes.
• Implementing solid waste management practices through recycling and composting, thus reducing the burden on municipal authorities. This can generate additional income for these women-run SHGs.
• Partnering with local authorities to enforce laws, regulations and sanctions for unhygienic and illegal dumping of garbage.

Through self-help groups, women can become agents of change in their communities, improving the overall quality of life in Indian cities by promoting cleanliness and hygiene standards that can significantly impact public health and the environment positively.