The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment documented the economic transformation of Mekala Yesamma, a 33-year-old Scheduled Tribe waste picker from Guntur, through the Swachhta Udyami Yojana (SUY) scheme. On June 19, 2023, Yesamma received financial assistance through the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation implemented via Navajeevan Organisation for a group project involving procurement of an Open Nallah Cleaner (Tractor-Mounted).
The total project cost was ₹16,99,952, financed through a loan component of ₹10,24,964 and capital subsidy of ₹6,74,988. Prior to this intervention, Yesamma earned approximately ₹8,000 per month from waste-picking activities. Post-implementation, her income increased by ₹10,000 monthly, reaching a total of approximately ₹18,000 per month. This income enhancement significantly improved her ability to meet household expenses, support her children's education, and elevate her family's overall standard of living.
The case study demonstrates the scheme's objective of creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged communities, particularly waste pickers, by providing capital subsidies for equipment procurement. Yesamma's journey from waste picking to operating mechanical cleaning equipment represents a shift toward more productive and dignified livelihood options, reducing dependence on limited income sources and enhancing financial security for marginalized communities.