Kerala has made tremendous progress in sustainable waste management in the recent past, and no one can belittle the role of Haritha Karma Sena in propelling God’s own country towards a waste-free state. Haritha Karma Sena is a dynamic women-led team associated with Kudumbashree, tasked with the collection and transportation of non-biodegradable waste, working in tandem with local self-government institutions, Suchitwa Mission, Health Department, Clean Kerala Company, and other allied establishments. It came into existence in 2017 as part of the Haritha Keralam Mission, an ambitious programme envisaged to make Kerala a clean and green state.
Haritha Karma Sena collects non-biodegradable waste from houses and establishments to shredding units for recycling. Currently, 36,570 Haritha Karma Sena members are working across the state. The state government has fixed a minimum user fee of Rs. 50 for households and Rs. 100 for establishments. The money collected is divided up among the workers in the form of fixed salaries.
Haritha Karma Sena provides awareness on waste management to the public, guidance on composting systems that can be installed in homes and institutions, and necessary equipment for homes and institutions to dispose of organic waste at source. Apart from dealing with problems arising from disposal of waste at source and ensuring assistance of Green Aid Institutions if required, they focus on new income opportunities by starting green enterprises that manufacture new products from waste materials. Haritha Karma Sena is also engaged in activities like organic farming, manufacturing of eco-friendly products, and providing environment-friendly equipment on rent.
Despite being a key workforce ensuring scientific waste management in the state, a significant section of Haritha Karma Sena members still struggles with low income. Only 50% of the workforce earn up to Rs. 15000 per month. Moreover, the swachhata warriors face derogatory remarks and actions, especially from those who are reluctant to pay user fees.
Against all odds, Haritha Karma Sena emerges as a true symbol of environmental stewardship, contributing to women's empowerment, skill development, income generation, and community awareness.
No comments:
Post a Comment