JMC hosts ‘SafaiMitra Suraksha Shivir’ to honor Women in Sanitation

JAMMU, MARCH 14: As part of the ongoing week-long celebrations for International Women’s Day under the national theme “Naari Leads Swachhata,” the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) today organized a comprehensive ‘SafaiMitra Suraksha Shivir’ at the JMC premises.

The event was dedicated to ensuring the health, safety and dignity of women sanitation workers and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) who serve as the backbone of the Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0 in the city.

The program was held in the presence of Commissioner JMC and Mission Director, SBM-U 2.0, Dr. Devansh Yadav who presided over the event as the chief guest. He was joined by Joint Commissioner Health and Sanitation, Abdul Star and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Jammu, Dr. Harbaksh Singh, representing the District Health Society.

During the Shivir, a specialized medical camp was established in collaboration with the District Health Society, where female sanitation workers and members of women-led SHGs underwent critical health screenings, including testing for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

In a strong push toward occupational safety, high-quality Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits were distributed to all female workers and SHG members. This gesture reinforces the ‘Give to Gain’ philosophy, ensuring that those who work daily to keep the city clean are provided with the necessary gear to protect their own health.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Devansh Yadav emphasized the importance of the NAMASTE scheme (National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem), which focuses on safety and the elimination of hazardous cleaning practices. He lauded the women entrepreneurs and SHGs for their emerging leadership in the waste management value chain. The officials also acknowledged the technical support from Swaaha in coordinating these vital IEC activities and ensuring that health and safety protocols reach every frontline worker.

The event concluded with a pledge to continue organizing such Suraksha Shivirs regularly to provide a robust safety net for the sanitation workforce. All details of the health screenings and activities from today’s camp are being documented and uploaded to the official Swachhatam Portal for monitoring and follow-up care.