No Manual Scavengers Found in New Survey Under MS Act 2013: Government
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
The government informed Rajya Sabha that a fresh survey under the MS Act, 2013 found no manual scavengers in any district. It also reported identification of 89,915 sewer and septic tank workers under the NAMASTE scheme, highlighting ongoing efforts to eliminate manual scavenging and ensure worker safety.
Background
Manual scavenging has been a persistent social evil in India, despite legal bans. The MS Act, 2013 prohibits manual scavenging and hazardous cleaning of sewers, and mandates rehabilitation. The NAMASTE scheme was launched in 2023-24 to mechanize sanitation and provide welfare to workers.
Key facts
A new survey under the MS Act, 2013 found no manual scavengers in any district of India.
The survey was conducted across all districts as per provisions of the Act.
Under NAMASTE scheme, 89,915 sewer and septic tank workers have been identified across the country.
The information was given by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, in a written reply to Rajya Sabha.
NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) was launched in 2023-24.
The scheme aims to ensure safety and dignity of sewer and septic tank workers through mechanization and welfare measures.
Government steps include distribution of PPE kits, safety training, emergency response units, capital subsidy for sanitation machines, health insurance, and workshops.
SBM-U 2.0, launched on 1 October 2021, includes Used Water Management (UWM) to promote mechanized cleaning and eliminate hazardous manual entry.
The MS Act, 2013 prohibits construction and maintenance of insanitary toilets and hiring anyone for hazardous manual cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
Prelims pointers
- MS Act, 2013: Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013
- NAMASTE scheme: National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem, launched 2023-24
- SBM-U 2.0: Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0, launched 1 October 2021
- Used Water Management (UWM) is a component of SBM-U 2.0
- Ministry: Social Justice and Empowerment
- Minister of State: Ramdas Athawale
- Rajya Sabha member: Derek O'Brien
Mains angles
- Discuss the effectiveness of legal and welfare measures in eradicating manual scavenging in India.
- Critically examine the role of NAMASTE scheme in ensuring safety and dignity of sanitation workers.
- Analyze the challenges in implementing the MS Act, 2013 and suggest improvements.