Which group of workers is eligible for NAMASTE scheme, which is also a key aspect of the banking industry's financial inclusion initiatives?

The NAMASTE Scheme, led by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, aims to eliminate manual engagement in hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning. Implemented by NSKFDC for three years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26) with a budget of 349.73 crores, the scheme provides entitlements for Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs), including digital profiling, PPE kits, safety training, health insurance, and opportunities for entrepreneurship in the sanitation sector. Over 4800 Urban Local Bodies will benefit, profiling over a lakh SSWs.