Exclusive for Subscribers Daily: Manual Scavenging and Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the UPSC Exam? Why are topics like Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) , Current Account Deficit (CAD) important for both preliminary and main exams? Discover more insights in the UPSC Exam Notes for December 10, 2024

 

🚨 UPSC EXAM NOTES presents the December edition of our comprehensive monthly guide. Access it  to enhance your preparation. We value your input - share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments section or via email at Support@upscexamnotes.com 🚨

Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on December 10, 2024

Daily Insights and Initiatives for UPSC Exam Notes: Comprehensive explanations and high-quality material provided regularly for students

 

Manual Scavenging

For Preliminary Examination:   Focus on constitutional provisions, government schemes, and laws related to manual scavenging.

For Mains Examination: Essay, GS Paper II (Social Justice), GS Paper III (Infrastructure, Technology), and Ethics (Dignity and Rights)

Context:

As per the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 (MS Act, 2013), manual scavenging is a banned activity in the country with effect from 06.12.2013. No person or agency can engage or employ any person for manual scavenging from the above date 

 

Read about:

Manual Scavenging

Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 (MS Act, 2013)

Key takeaways:

Manual scavenging refers to the practice of manually cleaning, carrying, disposing of, or handling human excreta from insanitary latrines, drains, or sewers. It is a highly stigmatized and hazardous activity predominantly undertaken by marginalized communities in India.

• Constitution of India:

  • Article 14: Right to Equality.
  • Article 17: Abolition of untouchability.
  • Article 21: Right to a dignified life.

• Legislative Framework:

  • Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993: Prohibits the construction of dry latrines and the employment of manual scavengers.
  • Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013:
    • Prohibits manual scavenging in any form.
    • Mandates mechanization for cleaning sewers and septic tanks.
    • Provides rehabilitation measures, including skill training, financial aid, and alternative employment opportunities.

• Most manual scavengers belong to Scheduled Castes and face systemic discrimination.
• Exposure to toxic gases and pathogens leads to severe health issues, including respiratory disorders, infections, and even death.
• Despite legal prohibition, manual scavenging persists due to poor enforcement and lack of alternatives
• Lack of alternative livelihoods forces individuals to continue this hazardous occupation
• Mechanization of cleaning processes is limited in rural and urban areas due to inadequate infrastructure