Launched in 2016, Suvidha has evolved into a proven social innovation model, delivering essential hygiene and sanitation services to over 6,00,000 people annually and services been used more than 10 crores times since inception. The project is supported by on ground partners such as Pratha Samajik Sanstha and United Way Mumbai with EY serving as a governance partner.
In response to rapid urbanisation and the health needs of low-income communities, HUL reimagined traditional community toilets into an integrated hygiene solution. Each Suvidha Centre provides clean toilets, purified drinking water, showers and laundry facilities under one roof. The centres are designed for inclusivity, affordability and accessibility for all users and particularly women, children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities ensuring dignity and convenience for all users.
These facilities, in addition to in-depth community engagement and strong operating processes, lead to improved health outcomes among users. Suvidha Centres also operationally break even within nine months of launch. The profits generated by the services are used to maintain best in class hygiene standards.
Together Suvidha Centres have recorded more than 10 crore service uses with 95% user satisfaction. Independent assessments show that households using Suvidha unlock over ₹33,500 annually through time saved and medical costs avoided[a]. The model improves health, dignity and income outcomes for families, with Suvidha users reporting a 50% reduction in diarrhoeal incidence and low incidence of Urinary Tract Infection (UTIs)[a].
Suvidha centres are built for climate resilience; each centre is powered by solar and incorporates water recycling systems. Since inception, Suvidha Centres have cumulatively helped save over 30 crore litres of water. These design features ensure reliable access to essential hygiene services, particularly during periods of extreme heat and water stress, while reducing community vulnerability to climate impacts.
Suvidha’s learnings are being scaled nationally through collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) via the Centre for Hygiene and Sanitation Excellence (CHASE). Through this partnership, Suvidha's learnings are being codified and scaled across urban India, with the model serving as a national template. Additionally, to make these proven learnings more accessible, HUL and its partners are making the Suvidha Toolkit openly available, inviting governments, civic bodies and development partners to adapt and scale proven approaches for healthier and more climate-resilient cities.
Speaking at the inauguration, Hon’ble Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, said: “I am delighted to inaugurate the 25th Suvidha Centre in Mumbai. More than just public toilets, these centres have been designed as comprehensive community utility hubs, offering clean and modern sanitation facilities along with bathing areas, access to drinking water and dedicated laundry services. This provides much-needed convenience to families living in densely populated settlements. I thank Hindustan Unilever Limited, JSW Group and HSBC for supporting this initiative and for partnering with the government.”
Speaking on the milestone, Priya Nair, CEO & MD, Hindustan Unilever Limited, said: "We have always believed that what is good for India is good for HUL. Suvidha, our social innovation model, brings that belief to life. By using deep consumer and operational insights, we have created a financially sustainable model that addresses the challenges of urban sanitation at scale. This successful journey has been shaped by strong and enduring partnerships with MoHUA, BMC, HSBC India and JSW Foundation, each playing a critical role in delivering systemic, transformative impact.”
Mr Hitendra Dave, CEO, HSBC India, said "A decade on, our partnership with HUL and BMC helps underscore the role that we can play in unleashing a positive impact on communities that are combating problems of urban sanitation. We’re keen to build on the success and momentum created by Suvidha Centres to provide climate resilient sanitation."
According to Mrs Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of JSW Foundation “Suvidha is a powerful example of how thoughtfully designed social infrastructure can create lasting impact. Our partnership with HUL, and BMC reflects our commitments to inclusive development. Its success reflects the power of long-term partnerships across sectors.”