Rasika, a vibrant 47-year-old, radiates a quiet strength that speaks volumes about her journey. For years, life in Kalladiya presented a constant struggle. With her husband working as a daily laborer with inconsistent income, providing for their two married children felt like an uphill battle. Rasika, having never had the opportunity to work outside the home after finishing school, felt the weight of their financial insecurity acutely.
Nine months ago, a turning point arrived in the form of an opportunity at the INSEE, Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Kalladiya. Desperate for income, Rasika began collecting waste. This initial step, though challenging, paved the way for a more stable and safer role at the MRF. Now, Rasika is an integral part of the facility, diligently sorting through incoming waste, separating plastics and paper, cleaning recyclable items, and stacking them for their next life.
Her daily tasks, though vital for the environment, came with their own set of challenges. “We faced risks like cuts, exposure to sharp or dirty materials, and sometimes breathing difficulties because of dust,” Rasika explains. Now, with the project’s support in providing gloves, boots, and masks has been a significant help, offering a crucial layer of protection.
Beyond the physical demands, women like Rasika often juggle their work with household responsibilities and childcare, adding another layer of complexity to their lives.
For Rasika’s family, her income from the MRF has become the lifeline. “Yes, my MRF income is the main source of money for the household,” she states, highlighting the crucial role it plays, especially on days when her husband is unable to find work. “It pays for food, some loans, and medicine. Without this work, we would struggle to survive.” While she acknowledges that gender roles are still visible in the division of labour in waste work, where men typically take on higher paid roles contributing to the wage gap, Rasika is hopeful that the gender wage gap will decrease in the future.
. While she is grateful for the stability and security her current job provides,Initially, the community’s perception of women in waste collection was mixed. “At first, some people in the community didn’t fully understand or appreciate this kind of work,” Rasika recalls. However, with time, attitudes have shifted. “Now, many recognize that women working in waste collection and recycling are making an important contribution not just to their own families, but also to keeping the community clean and protecting the environment.” A sense of pride shines through as she adds, “I feel that people respect the hard work we do, and some even come to us for advice on waste sorting or recycling.”
Rasika herself feels a deep sense of accomplishment. “Honestly, I feel proud that I can handle both my work and family responsibilities. While balancing everything can be busy at times, I see it as a strength. It has made me more confident and organized.” She firmly believes in the unique strengths both men and women bring to this work, and she is a living testament to the meaningful contributions women can make in this sector.
The training and support provided by the INSEE through the PLEASE project have been instrumental in Rasika’s growth. “I have received training on sorting techniques, safety practices, hygiene, entrepreneurship sessions, and using protective equipment,” she shares. This has not only equipped her with the necessary skills but has also boosted her confidence. “I feel more confident and proud because I am supporting my family and contributing to environmental protection. Some people in the community now see me with more respect.”
Looking ahead, Rasika offers thoughtful suggestions for further improvements. While grateful for the existing support, she believes that “regular health checkups and maybe occasional workshops or refresher training” would be beneficial. Recognizing the additional burdens women often carry, she suggests that “childcare support would also make it easier for many women to fully focus on their work.”
To make the project even more gender-sensitive and inclusive, Rasika proposes creating “leadership and promotion opportunities for women, organizing gender-sensitivity workshops, and supporting flexible working hours for women who have childcare responsibilities.” These insightful suggestions highlight her understanding of the nuances and the potential for greater equity within the sector.
Rasika’s story is not just about a woman finding employment; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, empowerment, and the vital role women play in environmental sustainability. From a place of financial hardship, she has emerged as a confident contributor to her family and a respected member of her community, proving that with opportunity and support, individuals can transform their lives and make a significant impact. Her journey underscores the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in waste management, recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of women like Rasika who are at the forefront of creating a cleaner and more sustainable future for Kalladiya.
