NAMASTE scheme
The National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme, launched in July 2023, aims to support Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) and has recently included waste pickers as beneficiaries. As of August 2025, significant progress includes the validation of 84,902 SSWs, distribution of PPE kits, coverage of over
NAMASTE scheme
The NAMASTE scheme, aimed at the welfare of Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) and Waste Pickers, has validated 37,980 waste pickers across various Urban Local Bodies in India. A financial allocation of Rs. 2,24,40,000 has been made for the establishment of 34 State Project Management
Waste Pickers
On World Environment Day 2025, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) launched the Waste Picker Enumeration App under the NAMASTE Scheme, aiming to profile 2.5 lakh waste pickers. This initiative seeks to provide formal identity, social protection, and skill development for waste pickers, recognizing their vital role