Central state minister B. L. Verma distributed PPE kits and Ayushman cards to cleaning friends under the “Namaste” scheme in Muradabad.

Central State Minister Mr. B. L. Verma today, at a ceremony organized under the “Namaste” scheme in Muradabad district of Uttar Pradesh, handed personal protective equipment (PPE) kits and Ayushman Bharat scheme cards to sanitation workers. The initiative aims to guarantee health safety for sanitation staff while reducing the risk of COVID‑19 and other infectious diseases. The PPE kit includes a face mask, gloves, sanitizer and a raincoat, providing the necessary protection for their daily duties. Additionally, through the Ayushman card they will receive free treatment under the National Health Insurance Scheme, thereby reducing health‑related expenses.

The “Namaste” scheme, based on an integrated approach to cleanliness and health, is being implemented by the government to recognize and strengthen the work of sanitation workers in both rural and urban areas. Under this scheme, sanitation workers are provided not only with financial incentives but also with social respect. The distribution program in Muradabad was chosen because the district has been the focus of several model projects for urban cleanliness improvement in recent years, and its sanitation staff have delivered sustained service during climate change challenges and the pandemic.

Verma said that cleanliness and health are two fundamental pillars, without which the achievement of any developmental goal is impossible. He thanked all sanitation workers for their tireless efforts and stated that the government will continue to prioritize their safety and welfare. This step conveys the message that public health policies are being coordinated with workplace safety to ensure broad social benefits.