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
- Eradicate Manual Scavenging:
- Replace manual scavenging with mechanized cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
- Rehabilitation of Workers:
- Provide alternate livelihoods for workers engaged in manual scavenging.
- Skill Development:
- Train workers in the use of modern equipment and safety protocols.
- Public Awareness:
- Sensitize communities about the dangers of manual scavenging and the need for mechanized sanitation.
- Dignity and Welfare:
- Ensure the dignity, safety, and social inclusion of sanitation workers.
Key Features
- Coverage:
- Implemented across urban areas in India.
- Focus on municipalities where manual scavenging is prevalent.
- 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.
- Convergence:
- Aligns with other government programs like Swachh Bharat Mission and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC).
- 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
- Health Hazards:
- Prevent deaths and injuries caused by hazardous manual scavenging.
- Social Stigma:
- Address the caste-based discrimination faced by manual scavengers.
- Legal Mandate:
- Compliance with the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013.
Expected Outcomes
- Complete Eradication of Manual Scavenging:
- Transition to safe, mechanized sanitation practices.
- Dignity for Sanitation Workers:
- Improved working conditions and social inclusion.
- Enhanced Urban Sanitation:
- Modernization of sanitation infrastructure in urban areas.
Challenges in Implementation
- Awareness:
- Lack of awareness among stakeholders about the scheme.
- Resistance to Change:
- Reluctance to adopt mechanized cleaning methods in some areas.
- Funding Constraints:
- Adequate allocation and utilization of funds.
- Identification Issues:
- Comprehensive surveys to identify all manual scavengers may face logistical hurdles.
[box] Critically analyze the objectives, implementation strategies, and challenges of the Namaste Scheme in eradicating manual scavenging. How does it align with constitutional mandates and promote sanitation workers’ welfare? (250 words)
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