Context: Recently, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved extending the tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) for three years beyond 31.03.2025 (up to 31.03.2028).
- The total financial implication for the extension for three years of the NCSK would be approximately Rs.50.91 crore.
- It would help facilitate the socio-economic upliftment of sanitation workers, improve the working conditions in the sanitation sector, and achieve zero fatalities while performing hazardous cleaning.
Functions of the Commission
The mandate of the NCSK is to:
- Recommend programs for eliminating inequalities faced by Safai Karmachris.
- Evaluate the implementation of social and economic rehabilitation programs for Safai Karmcharis and scavengers.
- Investigate grievances related to non-implementation of relevant programs and guidelines for Safai Karmcharis’ welfare.
- Monitor the working conditions, including health, safety, and wages of Safai Karmacharis.
- Report to the government on issues concerning Safai Karmacharis and their difficulties.
- Address any other matters referred by the government.
- Under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 (MS Act 2013), NCSK’s functions include:
- Monitoring the Act’s implementation.
- Investigating complaints of violations and recommending actions.
- Advising the government on effective implementation.
- Taking suo-motu notice of non-implementation of the Act.
Background:
- The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993, was enacted in September 1993 and a statutory National Commission for Safai Karmcharis was first constituted in August 1994.
- Chairperson: Shri M.Venkatesan