The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment published a case study showcasing Shiv Lal's transition from sanitation worker to entrepreneur through the Swachhta Udyami Yojana under the NAMASTE Scheme. Shiv Lal, a 44-year-old Scheduled Caste Valmiki community member from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, had worked as a Sewer and Septic Tank Cleaning Helper for nearly two decades with a monthly income of approximately ₹6,000, which was insufficient to meet household expenses and support his children's education.
On August 12, 2025, Shiv Lal received financial assistance comprising a ₹4,08,500 capital subsidy and a ₹7,25,500 loan, totaling ₹11,34,000 project cost, to procure a Tractor cum Suction Machine and establish his own sanitation service business. This intervention enabled him to transition from daily-wage employment to entrepreneurship.
Currently, Shiv Lal operates his sanitation service business with improved financial outcomes. After meeting his monthly loan repayment of approximately ₹18,186 and labour expenses of around ₹8,000, he reports a net monthly surplus of ₹10,000–₹12,000 after accounting for operational expenses and repayments. This represents a significant improvement from his previous monthly income of ₹6,000, providing greater support for his children's education and family needs while enhancing his professional dignity and self-reliance.
The case study demonstrates how targeted financial assistance through the Swachhta Udyami Yojana creates opportunities for sanitation workers to become entrepreneurs, promoting economic independence and supporting families in building more secure futures.