Manual scavenging-free India, accessibility reforms among social justice ministry's agenda for 2025

https://www.cnbctv18.com/india/manual-scavenging-free-india-accessibility-reforms-among-social-justice-ministrys-agenda-for-2025-19528974.htm

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment outlined its 2025 agenda, focusing on eradicating manual scavenging, supporting persons with disabilities, and empowering marginalised communities. Despite claims that manual scavenging no longer exists, only 257 districts uploaded certification, prompting the ministry to urge updates. Under the NAMASTE scheme, 54,574 sewer workers were profiled, with plans to expand to 2,50,000 waste pickers, providing safety training, health insurance, and equipment support. Efforts to mechanise hazardous cleaning operations will intensify, while TULIP will launch an e-commerce platform to connect artisans with global markets. Rehabilitation initiatives under the SMILE scheme will expand to 50 cities, adding shelter homes and skill programs for transgender individuals. The ministry pledged stricter accessibility standards, filling key vacancies, and strengthening the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana for senior citizens. Skill development and education programs, like PM-DAKSH and SRESHTA, will expand, with the PM-SURAJ portal ensuring transparency and monitoring outcomes.