Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu has asked his officials to ensure effective follow up action with states for realizing the objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission.<br/><br/> An official release said, Mr Naidu today reviewed the progress of the Mission in urban areas. He said, a total of 141 towns in seven states have claimed to become Open Defecation Free including 100 in Maharashtra and these claims are under verification. The Ministry said, as per the reports received from States so far, a total of 974 cities and towns will eliminate Open Defecation next year.