Timely financial assistance and access to mechanised equipment can enable sanitation workers to move away from unsafe work, become self-employed and build secure livelihoods with dignity.

Himanshu, a 25-year-old graduate from the OBC Lohar community, experienced this transformation through assistance under the Swachhta Udyami Yojana (SUY) component of the NAMASTE Scheme. A resident of Village Nandgram, Mariyam Nagar, Ghaziabad, he now independently operates a tractor-cum-suction machine and provides mechanised sanitation services in nearby areas.

Himanshu grew up in a family where financial hardship was part of everyday life. His father worked as a daily-wage labourer, and the family often struggled to meet basic needs. As the eldest son, Himanshu assumed responsibility for supporting his parents and younger siblings at an early age. Difficult financial circumstances compelled him to begin working while pursuing his aspirations for a more secure future.

He entered sanitation-related work under local contractors, undertaking sewer and septic tank cleaning in harsh and risky conditions. The work involved physical exhaustion, irregular wages and dependence on contractors. Social stigma associated with the occupation further affected his confidence and dignity, while the absence of financial assets prevented him from starting independent work.

Despite these challenges, Himanshu remained determined to become self-employed and operate modern sanitation equipment instead of continuing unsafe manual labour. He wanted financial stability and social respect for himself, as well as a secure future for his family. He believed that sanitation workers, when provided appropriate support and opportunities, could become independent entrepreneurs.

 

A major turning point came when Himanshu received financial assistance under NAMASTE-SUY for procuring a tractor-cum-suction machine. The assistance, released in August 2025, supported a total project cost of Rs 10,70,400, comprising a loan of Rs 6,74,200 and an upfront capital subsidy of Rs 3,96,200.

The tractor-cum-suction machine enabled Himanshu to begin mechanised sanitation service work independently. Mechanisation reduced his dependence on unsafe manual practices and contractors while improving the safety, efficiency and reliability of his operations. Gradually, his work expanded and he came to be recognised not merely as a labourer, but as a young entrepreneur providing dignified sanitation services.

Before receiving support, Himanshu worked as a sanitation labourer and earned an irregular income that was insufficient to meet his family's needs. After establishing his mechanised sanitation service, his financial condition improved significantly. Even after meeting operational expenses and paying a monthly EMI of Rs 15,059, he now earns and saves approximately Rs 25,000-Rs 35,000 per month. His earnings increase further during the rainy and winter seasons because of higher demand for sanitation services.

The improved income has enabled the family to manage household expenses more comfortably and plan for the future with greater confidence. For Himanshu, the most meaningful change is the happiness and relief visible on his parents' faces. Ownership of the sanitation vehicle has also strengthened his confidence, self-respect and sense of independence.

At present, Himanshu successfully operates his tractor-cum-suction machine in nearby areas and continues to expand his sanitation service work. The initiative has provided him with a stable and sustainable income, safer working conditions through mechanisation, improved social dignity and long-term self-employment opportunities.

Standing beside his tractor-cum-suction machine, Himanshu represents the impact of the NAMASTE-SUY Initiative in empowering sanitation workers through mechanisation, financial support and dignified livelihood opportunities. His journey demonstrates how timely assistance, combined with courage and perseverance, can transform years of struggle into self-reliance and inspire others in the community.

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