Governing waste and producing environmental subjects: a sociological analysis of decentralised solid waste management...

This study examines decentralized solid waste governance in Kerala through the institutional framework of the Haritha Karma Sena (HKS). While existing research on waste management primarily focuses on technical and policy implementation aspects, limited attention has been given to its sociological dimensions. Using qualitative document analysis of policy documents, institutional reports, and operational guidelines, the study analyzes how decentralized governance is structured and represented within official discourse. Drawing on governmentality, structuration theory, and social capital, the paper interprets how policy frameworks are designed to promote environmental responsibility, institutional participation, and social inclusion. The analysis suggests that the HKS model constructs conditions that may enable shifts in social relations, visibility of women workers, and the potential for community engagement. However, the study does not empirically verify these outcomes and highlights the need for future field-based research to examine lived experiences and implementation dynamics.