Economic Survey: Manual Scavenging Persists Despite Ban, Caste Stigma Deep-Rooted
India
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CNBC TV18•29-01-2026, 23:31
Economic Survey: Manual Scavenging Persists Despite Ban, Caste Stigma Deep-Rooted
- •The Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights the continued prevalence of manual scavenging, attributing it to deep-seated socio-cultural issues and caste-based stigma.
- •A majority of sewer and septic tank workers (SSWs) belong to specific castes (Valmiki, Mehtar, Dom, Madiga, Mala), facing historical discrimination.
- •The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, and Supreme Court directives exist, but enforcement remains weak.
- •The NAMASTE scheme (July 2023) aims to rehabilitate workers, with 89,104 SSWs validated; the survey suggests using 'Swaach Sarvekshan' for baseline data.
- •Recommendations include holding Urban Local Bodies accountable, scaling up indigenous mechanised cleaning devices, and comprehensive rehabilitation efforts.
Why It Matters: Manual scavenging endures due to caste stigma and weak enforcement, requiring societal change and stronger rehabilitation.
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