New Delhi, September 23: Gramin Vikas Trust (GVT), in partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), has conducted an empowerment drive at Katwaria Sarai, providing 25 informal waste workers with safety kits, uniforms, and insurance cover. The initiative aims to strengthen social security and promote safe practices in e-waste management across Delhi-NCR.
The project held on Tuesday, was implemented by GVT with the support of SMBC. It was launched in late 2023 with the vision of creating a sustainable and cleaner planet and focuses on raising awareness around e-waste, streamlining collection, segregation, and recycling, and strengthening the ecosystem for responsible e-waste management.
To date, the project has successfully collected and recycled over 600 kgs of e-waste. Currently in its Phase III, the project focuses on empowering 25 informal waste workers by providing them with safety kits, all season uniforms, and insurance coverage, ensuring their health, dignity, and livelihood.
The onboarded waste workers were selected through a screening process considering their social and financial status, in cognizance with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).Â
In the past, the same set of workers were also trained and upskilled to handle and manage E-waste in most effective way under the project.
The session combined practical demonstrations with the distribution of safety gear, reinforcing the project’s commitment to building a secure, skilled, and empowered workforce for sustainable waste management.
The event was graced by key dignitaries, including: Rajiv Chaudhary – MCD Ward Councilor, Vijendra Nath – MCD Sanitary Inspector, Sonakshi Shree and Anil Kumar from GVT. They all appreciated the initiative and emphasized the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices to ensure environmental balance and social well-being.
The empowerment drive concluded with an interactive feedback session and group photographs, reflecting the shared commitment of all stakeholders towards creating a safer, more dignified, and sustainable future for informal waste workers.
The event not only marked a significant milestone in advancing responsible e-waste management but also reinforced the collective vision of empowering frontline workers and fostering an inclusive, resilient, and environmentally conscious ecosystem.
