Project Utthaan Recognises Over 42,000 Waste Pickers Across India as Climate Champions

A large workforce of informal waste collectors across India, who traditionally begin their day before dawn to collect and sort waste by hand, is gradually gaining formal recognition and economic security through a United Nations-backed initiative.

Launched on World Environment Day, the 'Planet Starts With People' campaign and Project Utthaan — supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partner foundations — aim to position India's waste workers, or 'Safai Mitras', as key partners in the circular economy and environmental stewards.

Since 2020, the project has helped thousands of workers access banking services, insurance policies, and government welfare schemes. For many participants, such as Delhi-based waste worker Joginder Kewat, the association has transformed daily livelihood stability. Kewat noted that the initiative enabled him to manage household expenses and children's education, transitioning from daily earnings of ₹100 to ₹150 to a secure source of income.

According to project stakeholders, the primary barrier for waste workers in accessing government support was not a lack of eligibility, but a lack of awareness and confidence. Through direct household outreach, project teams have assisted workers in obtaining essential documentation, including e-Shram cards, Ayushman cards, and other welfare benefits such as free LPG cylinders.

Ashish Chaturvedi, head of Action for Climate and Environment at UNDP India, highlighted a multiplier effect observed during the rollout. When individual workers successfully accessed welfare schemes, neighbouring community members followed, widening trust and driving inclusion organically.

At partner upcycling centres, the project also facilitates commercial activities, such as transforming discarded milk pouches into woven consumer goods including handbags, wallets, and plant holders.

Angela Lusigi, UNDP Resident Representative in India, noted that the campaign underscores how local climate action begins with people, aiming to close the recognition gap for waste workers who have long driven recycling efforts without formal visibility.

"Initiatives like Project Utthaan demonstrate how formalising informal sectors can create meaningful economic security and social inclusion at the grassroots level. By bridging the information gap regarding welfare schemes and financial services, the project not only improves individual livelihoods but also strengthens the foundational pillars of India's circular economy." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes