Delhi waste pickers receive formal-recognition and health-benefit cards
More than 300 workers attended the Najafgarh Zone event, where NAMASTE and Ayushman cards were distributed.
NAMASTE identity cards and Ayushman health-benefit cards were distributed to waste pickers at an event in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's Najafgarh Zone.
More than 300 workers attended. The scheme is intended to support formal recognition, occupational safety, healthcare access, social protection and skills for sanitation workers.
Why it matters
Waste pickers face occupational hazards and income insecurity while performing essential urban services. Formal identification can help connect workers with protection and benefits that are otherwise difficult to access.
SCULTRA point of view
Card distribution is an entry point. The useful measures are active enrolment, healthcare use, protective-equipment availability, income stability, service accessibility and grievance resolution.
Limitations
The release gives event attendance but not the exact number of cards issued, coverage activated, benefits claimed or improvements in workplace safety.
Source: Press Information Bureau / Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, 4 September 2026, 09:02 IST.