Namaste Scheme:

GS 2 – Schemes 

The Namaste Scheme (National Action Plan for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem) is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India to eliminate hazardous manual scavenging and promote the adoption of modern and mechanized sanitation practices.

Objectives

1. Eradicate Manual Scavenging:
   • Replace manual scavenging with mechanized cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
2. Rehabilitation of Workers:
   • Provide alternate livelihoods for workers engaged in manual scavenging.
3. Skill Development:
   • Train workers in the use of modern equipment and safety protocols.
4. Public Awareness:
   • Sensitize communities about the dangers of manual scavenging and the need for mechanized sanitation.
5. Dignity and Welfare:
   • Ensure the dignity, safety, and social inclusion of sanitation workers.

Key Features

1. Coverage:
   • Implemented across urban areas in India.
   • Focus on municipalities where manual scavenging is prevalent.
2. Components:
   • Survey and Identification: Comprehensive survey to identify individuals engaged in manual scavenging.
   • Mechanized Cleaning: Procurement and deployment of modern sanitation equipment like jetting machines and suction units.
   • Capacity Building: Skill development programs for sanitation workers.
   • Financial Assistance: Financial aid for workers transitioning to alternate livelihoods.
   • Health and Safety: Provision of protective gear and health insurance.
3. Convergence:
   • Aligns with other government programs like Swachh Bharat Mission and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC).
4. Implementation Partners:
   • Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE).
   • Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
   • Civil Society Organizations.

Funding

• 100% funded by the Central Government.
• Funds allocated for:
  • Procurement of sanitation equipment.
  • Skill development and rehabilitation programs.
  • Awareness campaigns.

Challenges Addressed

1. Health Hazards:
   • Prevent deaths and injuries caused by hazardous manual scavenging.
2. Social Stigma:
   • Address the caste-based discrimination faced by manual scavengers.
3. Legal Mandate:
   • Compliance with the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013.

Expected Outcomes

1. Complete Eradication of Manual Scavenging:
   • Transition to safe, mechanized sanitation practices.
2. Dignity for Sanitation Workers:
   • Improved working conditions and social inclusion.
3. Enhanced Urban Sanitation:
   • Modernization of sanitation infrastructure in urban areas.

Challenges in Implementation

1. Awareness:
   • Lack of awareness among stakeholders about the scheme.
2. Resistance to Change:
   • Reluctance to adopt mechanized cleaning methods in some areas.
3. Funding Constraints:
   • Adequate allocation and utilization of funds.
4. Identification Issues:
   • Comprehensive surveys to identify all manual scavengers may face logistical hurdles.