For decades, core sanitation workers in Odisha carried out one of society’s most essential yet most dangerous jobs. Every day, they entered hazardous sewers and septic tanks with a single hope—to return home safely and provide a better future for their families.
Today, that long-held dream is becoming a reality.
Through the Odisha GARIMA Initiative, the state government is replacing hazardous manual cleaning with modern mechanised sanitation while ensuring workers receive the safety, dignity and social protection they deserve.
Government Strengthens GARIMA Initiative
Recognising the invaluable contribution of sanitation workers, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to expanding the GARIMA Initiative.
Building on its strong foundation, the Odisha Government is strengthening the programme to ensure every core sanitation worker benefits from:
- Safer working conditions
- Comprehensive social security
- Improved access to welfare schemes
- Better livelihood opportunities
- Greater dignity and professional recognition
Today, GARIMA has evolved into one of Odisha’s flagship social welfare initiatives, ensuring that dignity of labour is not merely a principle but a lived reality.
Mechanisation Replaces Hazardous Manual Cleaning
A key objective of the GARIMA Initiative is to eliminate dangerous manual sanitation work through technology.
Core sanitation workers are now equipped with mechanised sewer and septic tank cleaning machines that significantly reduce occupational risks.
They also receive high-quality Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including:
- Safety helmets
- Protective gloves
- Face masks
- Safety glasses
- Heavy-duty boots
These measures make sanitation work safer while recognising workers as trained professionals performing an essential public service.
Comprehensive Social Security for Workers
The GARIMA Initiative extends beyond workplace safety by providing an integrated package of welfare benefits.
Eligible workers receive:
- Hazard allowance
- Life and accident insurance
- Regular health check-ups
- Identity cards
- Access to subsidised food security schemes
- Housing support under PMAY-U
In addition, dedicated Garima Halls have been established across urban local bodies. These facilities provide clean sanitation amenities, safe resting spaces and improved working conditions that promote workers’ dignity and wellbeing.
Currently, around 9,364 core sanitation workers across Odisha are covered under the GARIMA ecosystem.
A Story of Transformation
The impact of the initiative is best reflected through the experience of Raju Naik, a sanitation worker from Berhampur Municipal Corporation.
Earlier, Raju manually cleaned hazardous sewer systems, exposing himself to life-threatening risks every day.
Today, he operates mechanised desludging equipment as a trained sanitation professional.
According to Raju, access to protective equipment, housing support, insurance coverage, improved income and regular health services has transformed not only his own life but also created better opportunities for his children.
His journey reflects how the GARIMA Initiative is changing lives through safety, dignity and empowerment.
Odisha to Host 2nd National GARIMA Conclave
To further advance safe and inclusive sanitation practices, the Housing & Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha, will organise the 2nd National GARIMA Conclave in Bhubaneswar on August 22–23, 2026.
The conclave will bring together:
- Policymakers
- Urban Local Bodies
- Development partners
- Technology experts
- Sanitation workers from across India
Participants will discuss complete mechanisation of sanitation services, worker safety, innovative technologies and inclusive sanitation policies.
By showcasing Odisha’s successful model, the conclave aims to inspire nationwide efforts to ensure that no sanitation worker has to risk their life inside a manhole and that every worker is guaranteed safety, dignity and respect.
A Model for Inclusive Urban Development
The Odisha GARIMA Initiative demonstrates that sanitation workers deserve more than appreciation—they deserve protection, recognition and equal opportunities.
By combining mechanisation, welfare support and institutional reforms, Odisha is setting a national benchmark for humane and inclusive urban governance while ensuring that those who keep cities clean can work with safety, dignity and pride.
