The Union government has validated more than 3.7 lakh sanitation workers and waste pickers under the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme, according to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

According to the ministry, 89,915 sewer and septic tank workers and 2,81,117 waste pickers have been identified and validated under this scheme. NAMASTE scheme is being executed in collaboration between the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Government data revealed that 87,037 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits were distributed to sewer and septic tank workers, whereas 1,84,118 PPE kits were given to waste pickers. 76,845 health cards were given to sewer and septic tank workers, whereas 1,04,729 health cards were given to waste pickers.

The ministry also said 753 Emergency Response Sanitation Units (ERSUs) have been equipped with safety devices for sanitation-related emergencies.

The scheme focuses on replacing hazardous manual cleaning of sewers and septic tanks with mechanised methods. It includes occupational safety training, access to health insurance and Ayushman Bharat, skill development programmes and financial assistance for workers interested in self-employment.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar said the scheme is intended to improve safety, social security and working conditions for sanitation workers. He said the government is promoting mechanised sanitation, healthcare support, skills training and livelihood opportunities as part of the programme. He added that reducing fatalities during sanitation work remains one of its objectives.

The scheme also provides support for workers to use mechanised sanitation equipment and promotes self-employment through Self-Help Groups. It aims to reduce direct human contact with hazardous waste during sanitation operations.

According to the ministry, the Centre is working with states, Union Territories, urban local bodies and implementing agencies to expand mechanised sanitation services and strengthen occupational safety measures. The programme also seeks to improve access to welfare measures for sanitation workers and waste pickers.