In the wake of concerted efforts under the Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS), significant progress has been achieved in eradicating the grave issue of manual scavenging. Nevertheless, the persisting fatalities stemming from the hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks continue to make headlines. These tragic incidents underscore a critical concern – the dire need to prioritize safety and dignity for those working in this domain. Responding to this imperative, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) have jointly conceived the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme. This initiative seeks to combat hazardous cleaning practices, prevent fatalities among sanitation workers, and ensure their welfare.
Components of NAMASTE Scheme
- Profiling of SSWs (Sewer/Septic Tank Workers): NAMASTE takes a meticulous approach by profiling SSWs. This involves compiling a comprehensive list of these workers from Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and conducting detailed profiling through dedicated camps. Understanding the workforce is the first step towards addressing their needs effectively.
- Occupational Safety Training and PPE Distribution: Recognizing the imperative of safeguarding workers’ lives, NAMASTE emphasizes occupational safety training. Moreover, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits will be distributed to SSWs, offering a practical shield against the hazards they face.
- Assistance for Safety Devices to SRUs: Sanitation Response Units (SRUs) will receive support for acquiring safety devices. This targeted assistance enhances the capacity of SRUs to carry out hazardous cleaning operations while minimizing risks.
- Health Insurance Coverage: To provide a safety net, SSWs and their families will be included in the Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). NAMASTE shoulders the premium for identified Manual Scavengers and SSWs’ families previously not covered, fortifying their healthcare access.
- Livelihood Assistance and Empowerment: NAMASTE’s action plan nurtures mechanization and enterprise development. The National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC) will extend funding support and capital subsidy for sanitation-related equipment procurement, promoting self-employment. Additionally, skill development training, spanning up to two years with a monthly stipend, will empower the beneficiaries.
- Convergence of MoSJE & MoHUA Initiatives: Acknowledging the shared responsibility for SSWs’ safety, NAMASTE propels a stronger convergence between MoSJE and MoHUA. By pooling resources from existing schemes, like SRMS, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), the scheme presents a cohesive approach towards the workers’ comprehensive well-being.
Strategic Outreach and Implementation
- IEC Campaign: NAMASTE’s impact is amplified through robust Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and NSKFDC will collaboratively spearhead awareness drives. Utilizing electronic and print media, as well as hoardings at prominent locations, the campaign will resonate in local languages and English/Hindi. Extensive utilization of social media will be a cornerstone of the publicity strategy.
- MIS and Dedicated Website: Ensuring efficient management, NAMASTE’s implementation and progress will be bolstered by a robust Management Information System (MIS). The initiative will also benefit from a dedicated website, offering a transparent platform for monitoring and updates.
UPSC Mains Questions
- How does NAMASTE Scheme’s emphasis on profiling SSWs enhance the overall safety and welfare of these workers?
- In what ways does the convergence of initiatives from MoSJE and MoHUA under NAMASTE amplify its impact on sanitation worker welfare?
- Beyond safety measures, how does NAMASTE Scheme empower sanitation workers to transition towards entrepreneurship and mechanization?
- What strategies could be implemented to ensure the sustained effectiveness and awareness of NAMASTE Scheme’s objectives through its IEC campaigns?
