Saamuhika Shakti is a collective impact initiative, the first of its kind in India, where multiple implementing organisations have joined forces to enable informal waste pickers in Bengaluru to have greater agency to lead secure and dignified lives, with a specific focus on gender and equity. ‍ This project is initiated and supported by the H&M Foundation, and Sattva Consulting serves as the backbone. THE POWER OF THE COLLECTIVE It is fascinating what the human will can achieve if it sets its heart to something. When we amplify this by getting our collective energies together in a synchronised manner, doors of opportunities open. The informal waste-picker community in Bengaluru, despite its challenges with low income, gender inequality, red tape, financial illiteracy and lack of education, is rising together with concerted effort that is focussed on their key needs – safety and dignity. Being informally engaged in waste collection and segregation, the fight for what seems basic, is a battle fought everyday.

Areas of Interest

Waste Picker (Pourkarmikas)