In a significant shift for public health and gender roles, women have become the primary force behind sanitation management in Malavalli taluk of Karnataka's Mandya district. Moving beyond traditional household duties, they are now steering cleanliness operations at the gram panchayat level, bringing a new wave of efficiency and commitment to the sector.
From a Handful to a Driving Force
The transformation is remarkable. Just six months ago, only 3-4 women were involved in sanitation work across the taluk. Today, that number has surged to 22 women drivers, each with a dedicated assistant, making it the highest concentration of women-led sanitation units in Mandya district. This dramatic increase is credited to the proactive efforts of Zilla Panchayat CEO K R Nandini and Executive Officer Srinivas.
All the newly appointed drivers underwent formal training and secured official driving licences to operate sanitation vehicles. They work under the umbrella of the Swachatha Vahini Kendra, the district-level centre that coordinates solid waste management across panchayats. This centre is responsible for deploying vehicles, drivers, and assistants, acting as the key implementing agency for local cleanliness initiatives.
On the Ground: Commitment and Change
The women's work schedule is demanding yet structured. They typically work for about five hours daily, ensuring comprehensive door-to-door waste collection and overall village cleanliness. For their service, drivers receive an honorarium of Rs 7,500 per month, while assistants are paid Rs 5,500.
Ramya, a driver with two years of experience, highlights the discipline required. Her work involves sustained effort for around six hours a day on alternate days, covering entire gram panchayat areas that can encompass roughly seven villages.
The impact of their work was prominently displayed during the recent Mahotsava for Adi Jagadguru Shivarathri Shivayogi of Suttur in Malavalli, where these teams played a crucial role in maintaining impeccable cleanliness throughout the large-scale event.
A Growing Movement with Visible Impact
Sowmya, who supervises the women drivers and assistants, confirms the initiative has brought a visible change in sanitation management across the taluk. She notes that women-led teams are now directly responsible for cleanliness in 22 of the taluk's 39 gram panchayats.
The momentum is set to continue. In the coming weeks, 4-5 more women are expected to join the force, which will raise the total strength to approximately 30 drivers and assistants. This expansion signals a sustainable model where women are not just participants but leaders in the crucial mission of public sanitation and health, setting a powerful example for community-led development.
