Q. 'Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan' is a national campaign to (UPSC Prelims 2016)
Answer: eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers
Notes: The correct answer is [C] eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers.The Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan (National Campaign for Dignity and Eradication of Manual Scavenging) is a prominent social movement in India aimed at eliminating the inhumane practice of manual scavenging.

• Objective (Statement C – Correct): Launched primarily by the Jan Sahas Social Development Society, the campaign focuses on the total eradication of manual scavenging and the liberation of those forced into the practice. It emphasizes "dignity" (Garima) as the core right of the affected individuals.
• Methodology: The campaign encourages manual scavengers to voluntarily leave the practice, often through public actions like burning the baskets used for carrying waste. It provides legal aid, promotes education for their children, and advocates for their socio-economic rehabilitation.
• Legal Framework: The movement played a crucial role in pushing for the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, which broadened the definition of manual scavenging and mandated rehabilitation measures including cash assistance and skill training.
• Distinction: While options [A], [B], and [D] represent important social issues (homelessness, sex work, and bonded labor), they are addressed through different schemes such as the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NULM or the Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourer.