National Action Plan for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) | 19 May 2025

Why in News? 

A programme focused on the National Action Plan for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) was organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Bareilly.  

• It aimed to socially and economically empower sanitation workers and promote safe, dignified livelihoods. 

Key Points 

National Action Plan for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) 

• About: It is a collaborative initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). 
  • It was launched in 2023-24 as a Central Sector Scheme with a budget allocation of  349.73 crores for the period from 2023-24 to 2025-26.  
  • It primarily aims to eliminate manual scavenging and promote the safety and dignity of sanitation workers. 
  • Key Components: 
    • SSWs employed by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are to be profiled for targeted interventions. 
    • SSWs receive occupational safety training, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits, and health insurance under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). 
    • The scheme promotes self-employment and formal employment by providing capital subsidies to turn SSWs into “sanipreneurs” or sanitation entrepreneurs. 
    • Waste Pickers engaged in Solid Waste Management have been included as a component under the NAMASTE scheme in 2024. 
• Objectives: 
  • To socially and economically empower sanitation workers, especially those engaged in hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning. 
  • To ensure workers have access to safe, dignified, and sustainable livelihoods by mechanizing sanitation work and reducing health risks. 
  • To promote inclusion, safety, and welfare of workers through the distribution of PPE and healthcare benefits. 

Significance of the Programme   

• The programme is a vital step towards improving the socio-economic conditions of sanitation workers who often face hazardous working environments and social stigma. 
• The emphasis on mechanization under NAMASTE reduces manual scavenging, promoting healthier and safer work conditions. 
• Distribution of Ayushman cards under the (AB-PMJAY) ensures access to health services, crucial for workers exposed to occupational health risks. 
• Providing sewing machines promotes alternative livelihood opportunities, fostering skill diversification and economic stability. 
• NAMASTE aligns with the government’s broader objectives of social justice, inclusion, and welfare for marginalized communities. 
• The programme helps in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to decent work, health, and well-being (SDGs 3 & 8).