Millions mark UN hand-washing day

Washing thoroughly with soap is enough to keep hands clean

Millions of children around the world are marking the United Nations' first Global Handwashing Day.

In India, cricket star Sachin Tendulkar will be leading the campaign that will see children across South Asia simultaneously washing their hands.

The UN says it wants to get over the message that this simple routine is one of the most effective ways of preventing killer diseases.

Nearly half the world's population do not have access to adequate sanitation.

'Critical times'

More than 120 million children in 70 countries across five continents are expected to participate in the campaign.

From Kabul to Karachi and from Delhi to Dhaka, millions of children will take part in the campaign and pledge to embrace more hygienic practices by the simple act of washing their hands.

India has recruited one of the country's biggest sporting icons, cricket star Sachin Tendulkar, to be the face of the campaign.

Washing hands will be the topic of Afghan television and radio talk shows and Pakistani newscasts.