(a) whether the Government are aware that the practice of carrying night soil on heads is still
continuing in certain States;
(b) if so, whether the National Commission for Safai Karamchari has submitted any report in
this regard recently;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) the action taken by the Government in this regard;
(e) whether the State Governments or Union Government have made arrangements for their
rehabilitation and alternative employment; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SMT. MANEKA GANDHI)
(a)to(d) The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis, in its latest IVth report, has indicated
about existence of manual scavenging in certain parts of the country. Extracts of the
report have been sent to the concerned State Government(s) for necessary action.
(e)&(f) The National Scheme of Liberation and Rehabilitation of Scavengers and their
dependents is being implemented since 1992-93 with a view to give financial assistance
for training and rehabilitation in alternative occupation of the scavengers. The Scheme is
implemented through State Scheduled Castes Development Corporations. Under the
scheme assistance is provided for the following:
1. For training 100% Central Assistance,
(i) Stipend – upto Rs. 500/- per month per
scavenger
(ii) Training fees per scavenger – upto Rs. 300/- per month
(iii)
Honorarium to craftsman – upto Rs. 100/- per month, and
(iv) Tool kit allowance –
upto Rs. 2000/- per scavenger. The period of training is upto six months;
2. For rehabilitation,
(i) the extent of Central subsidy is 50% of the project cost or Rs.
10,000/- whichever is less;
(ii) Margin Money Loan is 15% of the project cost
which is shared by the Central and State Governments in the ratio of 49:51; and
(iii)
Balance amount of the project is met through bank loans.