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we have awakened a new spirit in the local bodies in regard to sanitary matters. We have created a new atmosphere, instinct with a new life. I attach far greater importance to the creation of an atmosphere than even to the actual work performed. An atmosphere is an ever-present and an ever-brooding influence, impregnating all who come within its sphere, guiding, stirring, and stimulating them in the paths of progressive work. I claim that we have created such an atmosphere in the mofussil, and what are the evidences in favour of this view? Why, Sir, we have received within the last few months schemes—I will not say numerous—a fairly large number of schemes, of water-supply and anti-malaria! operations. That shows that our countrymen in the mofussil are beginning to think about the vital problems of sanitation. Further, Sir, what do we find in connexion with the Gangasagar Mela? The year before last, when the Gangasagar Meia was attended by thousands and hundreds of thousands of people, there were about twenty deaths from cholera. This year there was only one. The District Board of the 24-Parganas, under the guidance and inspiration of the influences which we have created, were able to avert the outbreak of an epidemic of any kind. Let us now pass on to the flood- stricken area. What do we find there? My friend here, the Chairman of the District Board of Rajshahi, and other local bodies, under the inspira- tion of our officers, were able to prevent the outbreak of disease; and, Sir, the same tale comes from all parts of the country. We averted an epidemic in Bajitpur, in Mymensingh and in other places. Our propa- ganda work, done by the local bodies assisted by the Health Department, has had the effect of diminishing the mortality from cholera in this pro- vince. I will give you the figures. In 1921, the deaths from cholera in this province amounted to 80,000; last year it was 50,000. Look at the atmos- phere that we have created. Even the Non-Co-operators are seeking our help and assistance in the matter of health propaganda. Dr. Bentley told me this morning that he had received an invitation to a conference that was going to be held at Kanchrapara under the auspices of the Khilafat party. They want the advice of our experts - the Khilafat people and the Non-Co-operators are seeking our assistance, namely, that of the Health Department. What greater triumph could there be for the Department over which I have the honour to preside?'

To secure popular co-operation for the work of my Department was one of the main objects of my policy. I said in the Legislative Council, and I repeated it at public meetings, that malaria could be eradicated or its scope minimized only by the joint co-operation of the people and the Government; the Government must undertake the major works of flooding and flushing, and the minor works of village conservancy and sanitation, including local water-supply, could be left to local bodies, aided by voluntary organizations. This