Odisha Intensifies GARIMA Scheme to Strengthen Safety and Welfare of Sanitation Workers

Bhubaneswar: Reinforcing its focus on dignified and safe working conditions for sanitation workers, the Odisha government has intensified implementation of the GARIMA (Gaurav and Respect for Individuals Involved in Manual Activities) Scheme across Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in the state.

The renewed push under the Housing & Urban Development Department aims to eliminate hazardous manual sanitation practices, expand mechanized sanitation systems and strengthen social security coverage for sanitation workers engaged in maintaining urban hygiene and public health.

As part of the initiative, the department has undertaken universal identification and registration of core sanitation workers to ensure all eligible beneficiaries are brought under welfare and protection measures.

Officials said the programme is placing strong emphasis on reducing occupational risks by promoting the use of mechanized cleaning equipment and modern sanitation technologies across ULBs. To improve workplace safety standards, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has also been made mandatory for sanitation personnel.

Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said sanitation workers remain at the centre of Odisha’s urban development efforts and highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring their dignity, safety and social protection.

He stated that the GARIMA Scheme seeks to create a modern and humane sanitation ecosystem where workers are protected from hazardous practices and receive access to essential welfare services.

Beyond workplace reforms, the scheme provides a broader social protection framework aimed at improving the long-term well-being of sanitation workers and their families.

Eligible beneficiaries are being linked to housing support under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), while interventions related to financial inclusion, healthcare assistance, periodic health screening and insurance coverage are also being expanded.

To improve access to information and support services, the department continues to operate the dedicated GARIMA Helpline—14420—which enables sanitation workers to access welfare-related assistance and grievance redressal mechanisms.

Officials said the integrated approach is intended to build a fully mechanized, safer and more inclusive sanitation ecosystem while recognising the contribution of sanitation workers to urban life.

The department noted that GARIMA continues to serve as one of Odisha’s flagship urban welfare initiatives by combining sanitation reforms with worker dignity and social security measures.