Safaikarmcharis, the unsung heroes of Swachh Haryana: CM

Haryana Chief Minister Mr Nayab Singh Saini, while lauding the invaluable contribution of sanitation workers in realizing the dream of a Swachh Haryana, described them as the unsung heroes behind the state’s improved standards of cleanliness.

Referring to them as the silent force behind Haryana’s cleaner streets and healthier communities, the Chief Minister remarked that every clean street and neighbourhood in the state bears the invisible yet tireless imprint of these workers.

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The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing Safaikarmcharis who had come from across the state to attend a special programme held at his residence, Sant Kabir Kutir, on Wednesday.

During the event, the Safaikarmcharis expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister for the state government’s recent decision to raise their monthly wages by ₹2,100, a move announced on the occasion of Sant Kabir Jayanti.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that these workers are not just employees but form the backbone of both urban and rural hygiene infrastructure. Extending his greetings to citizens on the occasion of Shivratri, he added that this was a moment to honour those who work silently behind the scenes to uphold public health and human dignity.

Saini highlighted that the role of Safaikarmcharis goes far beyond cleaning streets and collecting waste. “You are the sentinels of our environment and the guardians of public health. The idea of a ‘Swachh Haryana’ is incomplete without your invaluable contribution,” he said.

The Chief Minister also underscored the daily risks these workers face. Recognising the dangers inherent in sewer cleaning and waste management, he said, “Cleaning sewers is not just difficult. It is life-threatening. Yet, you perform these duties with unwavering dedication.”

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on cleanliness as a form of worship, the Chief Minister recalled how Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi transformed this philosophy into a national movement through the Swachh Bharat Mission launched on October 2, 2014.

Outlining the latest welfare measures, the Chief Minister announced that the monthly salary for urban Safaikarmcharis has been increased to ₹17,000, and to ₹16,000 for rural workers. Additionally, the government has introduced a compensation of ₹5 lakh in the event of a worker’s death on duty, and ₹10 lakh in case of a fatality during sewer cleaning.

Speaking at the event, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi described the Safaikarmcharis as brave frontline warriors. “Our government is committed not only to recognising your work but also to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for you and your families. Children from the Valmiki community are now securing employment, and our policies will continue to foster such progress,” he added.