(a) the total number of families presently involved in manual scavenging in the
country; State-wise;
(b) the measures adopted by the Union Government to ensure rehabilitation of these
families by State Governments; and
(c) the target set for reduction in the number of families employed in manual
scavenging?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND
EMPOWERMENT (SMT. SUBBULAKSHMI JAGADEESAN)
(a) to (c) The continuance and construction of dry latrines and employment of manual
scavengers is prohibited under the Employment of Manual Scavengers and
Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993. However, for rehabilitation of
erstwhile manual scavengers and their dependents in alternative occupations, the
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched a new Self Employment
Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers. As per reports received from State
Governments/UT Administrations, there were 3.42 lakh erstwhile manual scavengers
and their dependents to be rehabilitated, at the time of formulation of the scheme.