IEA, in its endeavor to uplift the basic living standard of people living in rural areas, took the initiative of educating people about good practices and good lifestyle for better living. Better standard of living results in better mental and physical health condition, which eventually results in better productivity and higher income.
One of the major factors for better living, which IEA primarily stressed on, is proper sanitation and quality drinking water. These two are of utmost importance for any people living a healthy life. People are educated about the menaces created by open defecation. Open defecation results in high levels of environmental contamination and exposes people to greater risks of infection. In the absence of proper sanitation, people suffer from high levels of infectious, contagious, water borne, air borne and vector borne diseases leading to high incidences of morbidity and mortality.
IEA also realized the social discrimination in the villages of Kandhamal on Dalit and Minorities. They are not allowed access to drinking water and sanitation, hence IEA supported a health and sanitation program providing Community Toilet and drinking water facilities to bring equality for dignity living.
IEA made the arrangement of proper drinking water facility for these people. These ensured that they no longer have to unnecessarily suffer from water borne diseases.
Also, IEA took the initiative and constructed 3 Community toilets for defecation and also enclosed toilet to protect the privacy of girls and women. These not only helped in discouraging people from open defecation, but also helped in maintaining their dignity.
