Centre and UNDP joined hands to empower waste pickers under the Namaste scheme

Current Context: The Government of India and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) on May 1, 2025, to empower waste pickers under the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme.

Key Initiatives Under the Partnership:

• Financial Inclusion – Waste pickers will receive access to credit, subsidies, and financial aid to improve their livelihoods.
• Digital Profiling & Registration – Around 2.5 lakh waste pickers will be formally identified and issued occupational photo ID cards.
• Health & Safety Measures – Beneficiaries will get Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY health insurance, PPE kits, and skill training.
• Decentralized Waste Collection Centers – Waste picker collectives will manage local waste collection hubs, ensuring better working conditions.

This collaboration aims to enhance dignity, financial security, and social inclusion for waste pickers across India.

Question:

Q.1 Which scheme is associated with the empowerment of waste pickers through this agreement?
a) Swachh Bharat Mission
b) NAMASTE Scheme
c) PM Awas Yojana
d) Jal Jeevan Mission

Answer: b) The NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) Scheme is specifically targeted at sanitation workers and waste pickers to improve their working and living conditions.