The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment organised a national workshop in Bhubaneswar, Odisha to advance Mission Zero, an initiative aimed at eliminating deaths among sanitation workers. The event brought together government officials, urban local bodies, technology providers and sanitation workers to discuss how mechanisation and safety measures can protect those engaged in sanitation work.
Addressing the workshop, the Secretary of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment stated that eliminating fatalities in sanitation work is a priority under the Prime Minister’s vision. He stressed the need for coordinated action across government departments to ensure sanitation services are delivered safely and with dignity.
Key details of Mission Zero and related schemes
- Two central schemes, NAMASTE and GARIMA, are being implemented to promote mechanised sanitation services and protect worker safety
- NAMASTE has been extended until 2031 with a focus on systematic sanitation service delivery through Emergency Response Sanitation Units
- The schemes provide occupational safety measures, health coverage, education and livelihood support for sanitation workers and their families
- A Swachhata Sarthi component was introduced in 2024 to bring waste pickers into social and economic empowerment programmes
- The workshop highlighted safety equipment, technology solutions and entrepreneurship opportunities through Waste-to-Wealth Self Help Groups run by waste pickers and sanitation workers
What this means for you
If you work in sanitation services or as a waste picker, the government aims to provide you with mechanised equipment, safety gear and occupational health protections rather than manual labour practices. You may gain access to educational opportunities, livelihood support and social security benefits for yourself and your family. The initiative seeks to make sanitation work safer and more dignified through technology and comprehensive welfare support until 2031.