Dr. Virender Kumar Promotes NAMASTE Scheme and Ayushman Bharat Initiative in Jammu

The event underscored the government's commitment to 'Vanchiton Ko Variyata,' prioritizing the needs of historically underserved communities.

Dr. Virender Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment (SJ&E), visited Jammu to oversee the implementation of various schemes under his Ministry in the Union Territory. The visit aimed to reinforce the government's commitment to empowering marginalized communities and promoting health and safety initiatives for sanitation workers.

During the event, Dr. Kumar distributed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and Ayushman Bharat health cards to Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs), known as Safai Mitras. This initiative was part of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme, a flagship program designed to ensure safety, dignity, and economic empowerment for sanitation workers in urban India.

The NAMASTE scheme is a significant step in the government’s mission to enhance the occupational safety of Safai Karamcharis by providing them with essential protective equipment, safety devices, and mechanized tools. PPE kits, comprising masks, gloves, goggles, face shields, gowns, and shoe covers, are vital for protecting frontline workers from health hazards and infections in hazardous work environments.

Additionally, beneficiaries received Ayushman Bharat health cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). These cards enable access to cashless and paperless healthcare services at empaneled hospitals, ensuring comprehensive health coverage for sanitation workers and their families.

As part of his visit, Dr. Kumar also inspected the Outreach and Drop In Centre (ODIC) operated by the NGO 'JK Society for the Promotion of Youth and Masses' in Jammu. This center functions under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), addressing substance abuse issues and supporting affected individuals through counseling and rehabilitation programs.

The event underscored the government's commitment to 'Vanchiton Ko Variyata,' prioritizing the needs of historically underserved communities. This initiative aligns with the broader national vision of 'Viksit Bharat,' where inclusive development empowers every individual to contribute to India's growth and progress.

Prominent attendees included Ms. Sakina Masood (Itoo), Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education, and Social Welfare Department, Jammu & Kashmir; Shri Shyam Lal Sharma, MLA (Jammu North); Shri Yudvir Sethi, MLA (Jammu East); Shri Arvind Gupta, MLA (Jammu West); Shri Prabhat Kumar Singh, Managing Director of the National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC); and Shri Devansh Yadav, Commissioner of Jammu Municipal Corporation.

Dr. Virender Kumar's visit highlighted the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment’s steadfast resolve to create an equitable society by empowering marginalized communities through essential services, capacity-building programs, and comprehensive welfare initiatives.