According to a total evaluation study conducted by the Planning Commission in 2013, Sikkim emerged with the best performing gram panchayats and maintenance of sanitation facilities.
Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling launched a community-led total sanitation campaign in 1999 for achieving full sanitation in the 7,096 sq km area of the state.
And, to encourage sanitation activities, the state government has instituted a "Nirmal Gram Puraskar" (Clean village award).
