Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal today highlighted the need to reduce manual intervention in sanitation work through mechanisation.

Speaking at the Foundation Day celebrations of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis in New Delhi, Mr Meghwal stressed the importance of safety measures, protective equipment, training, health insurance and proper monitoring.

He also called for ensuring timely compensation to sanitation workers who suffer accidents, including those working in private establishments.

The Minister also spoke about the need to bring together various schemes related to insurance and compensation and work towards a more coordinated framework for the welfare of sanitation workers.

Mr Meghwal announced that efforts will be made to develop a major national memorial dedicated to Gangu Baba, a Valmiki community hero associated with the 1857 uprising. He also emphasised the need to highlight the contribution of lesser-known heroes from the community in India’s history.