Demographic, occupational, and living conditions of sweepers: A comprehensive analysis

Abstract

Cleanliness since ages was priority for everyone. Our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as he launched the Swachh Bharat Mission at Rajpath in New Delhi. On 2nd October 2014, Swachh Bharat Mission was launched throughout length and breadth of the country as a national movement. The study was conducted in Hisar and Fatehabad district having sample size of 280 respondents. This study investigates the demographic, educational, and occupational characteristics of sweepers in Hisar and Fatehabad districts. The majority of respondents (43.57%) are aged 20-30 years, with a significant portion holding middle school education (27.14%). Family backgrounds reveal low education status for 60.71% of respondents, and most work in elementary occupations (76.07%). Family size tends to be small (52.85%), and living conditions include basic amenities but lack medical facilities (65.71%). Sweepers predominantly engage in brooming, washroom cleaning, and mopping, with limited use of protective gear such as gloves and masks. The data indicates varied use of footwear and cleaning agents, with a reliance on phenyl and Harpic. This comprehensive analysis highlights the socio-economic and occupational conditions of sweepers, providing insights into their working environment and living standards.