A programme under the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem Scheme was organised at Gandhi Prekshagrih, Gandhi Stadium, near Jeevan Rekha, Nakhasa in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to the dignity, safety and social security of sanitation workers.
The event was held in the presence of B. L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. The programme focused on welfare measures for sewer and septic tank workers and waste pickers through distribution of safety equipment, health coverage and livelihood support.
Key highlights of the programme included the distribution of Personal Protective Equipment kits to sewer and septic tank workers and waste pickers, issuance of Ayushman health insurance cards to eligible beneficiaries, and distribution of sewing machines to individuals who had completed skill development training to support sustainable livelihoods.
Addressing the gathering, B. L. Verma emphasised the importance of ensuring dignity, occupational safety and comprehensive social security for sanitation workers. He shared national progress under the NAMASTE Scheme, stating that 89,248 sewer and septic tank workers have been verified across the country. Of these, 87,037 workers have been provided with PPE kits and 74,647 workers have been covered under the Ayushman health insurance scheme. Additionally, 1,87,120 waste pickers have been profiled nationwide.
In Pilibhit, 92 sewer and septic tank workers and 452 waste pickers have been profiled. During the programme, 452 beneficiaries received PPE kits, 30 beneficiaries were issued Ayushman cards, and 15 beneficiaries who completed skill development training were provided sewing machines to enhance income generation opportunities.
The initiative underlined the principle of priority to the deprived by focusing on historically marginalised communities engaged in sanitation work. It also aligns with the broader national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, aimed at inclusive development where every citizen is empowered to contribute to and benefit from India’s growth.
The programme was attended by Gulab Singh, Chairperson, District Panchayat; Aastha Agrawal, Chairperson, Municipal Council; Swami Prakatanand, MLA; Baburam Paswan, MLA; Vivek Kumar Verma, MLA; Sudhir Gupta, MLC; Sanjeev P. Singh, BJP District President; Yogita Swaroop, Senior Economic Advisor, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; district administration officials; and Prabhat Kumar Singh, Managing Director, National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation.
The event marked a concrete step towards mechanised sanitation, improved occupational safety and expanded welfare coverage for sanitation workers and waste pickers in the district.
