Role of Kudumbasree in waste management a study of Ernakulam district

Abstract

The present study is an attempt to examine the role of Kudumbasree in solid waste removal and disposal in the urban areas of Ernakulam district. Kudumbasree a women oriented poverty eradication programme of the Government of Kerala gave a new identity of worth to its members, especially the poor. It is the best vehicle through which the poor can be organized and the various income generating activities are helpful in improving the economic as well as social status of the poor women. Most of the urban poor women are less educated or unemployed. They have no job security and assets. Through self sufficient training programmes, the capacity of the poor women can be increased. They are capable of shaping their own development if they are given sufficient support. Solid waste management has become one of the income generating activities of Kudumbasree in the urban areas of Ernakulam district. The Kudumbasree members formed several groups to segregate, collect and transport solid waste from households, flats, hotels etc and this has helped in employment generation and poverty alleviation. Rapid industrialization and urbanization lead to population growth, which in turn leads to pollution and waste generation in the urban areas. Less education and a job of permanent income prompted several Kudumbasree members for selecting this job. But the Kudumbasree members face the problem of inadequate material and equipment to facilitate their work. The local bodies must provide sufficient training programmes and safety equipment to these workers. In order to make this programme more successful and attractive more and more benefits and support are needed from the authorities newline