WASTE PICKERS UNDER NAMASTE SCHEME

New Delhi, Jul 29, 2025 : National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme is a Central Sector Scheme for the welfare of Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) and Waste Pickers.

37,980 waste pickers have been validated in various Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the country till date. There is no target for enumeration of waste pickers State and district-wise for the ongoing work of enumeration of waste pickers.

Letter of Agreement between United National Development Programme (UNDP) and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) provides financial support by UNDP for State Project Management Units (PMUs) for implementation of Waste Pickers component under the NAMASTE scheme.

Rs. 2,24,40,000/- have been allocated for establishment of 34 PMUs for implementation of NAMASTE scheme for a period up to 31.03.2026.

This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI RAMDAS ATHAWALE, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.