Soliciting the Problem of Manual Scavenging Using Advanced Robot Technologies
Manual scavenging is a degrading and unethical practice that violates human rights and perpetuates social disparities. Despite being prohibited in India since 1993, it continues due to the social and economic disadvantage of the Dalit minority, who are primarily hired as manual scavengers. This essay explores the potential use of modern robotics technology to eradicate manual scavenging and improve social equity. The study examines the challenges and limitations of transitioning from manual scavenging to robotics technology, including the displacement of manual scavengers and the need for rehabilitation and reintegration. Advanced robotics technologies, such as robotic excreta cleaning systems, could replace manual scavenging and promote social fairness. However, adopting these technologies for manual scavenging requires a thorough understanding of the social and economic causes and systemic adjustments. The project aims to integrate advanced robotics technology with legal changes and social interventions to improve social equity and eradicate manual scavenging. This research paper result contributes to the ongoing discourse on manual scavenging by emphasizing the potential of modern robotics technology to enhance social justice and eradicate this inhumane practice.
Authors
- Poonam Rawat
- Minakshi Memoria (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7586-6309)
- Vasundhara Bhatt
- S.C. Saxena (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4780-0609)
Institutions
- Uttaranchal University (IN)
- King Khalid University (SA)
Publication Details
- Published
- 2024-09-12
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1109/sparc61891.2024.10829273
- Primary Topic
- Social Robot Interaction and HRI
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00