The NAMASTE Scheme, launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), aims to eliminate hazardous manual cleaning of sewers and septic tanks by promoting the mechanisation and formalisation of sanitation work. The scheme focuses on profiling and rehabilitating sanitation workers through training, safety equipment, health coverage, and livelihood opportunities in mechanised sanitation services.
Drawing on insights from 30+ organisations working across Indian states, the NFSSM Alliance shared recommendations with the Ministry to enable strengthening the scale the impact of the NAMASTE Scheme.
The recommendations focus on strengthening the scheme to advance safe, mechanised, and dignified sanitation work in urban India. It emphasises strengthening institutional mechanisms, improving worker safety and welfare, enabling livelihood transitions through mechanised sanitation enterprises, and building a enabling ecosystem through technology adoption and streamlined data systems. These recommendations aim to enhance worker dignity while improving sanitation service delivery.
Please download to access the detailed recommendations.