'Bhiksha Mukt Bharat': How Modi govt plans to make Ayodhya and other cities across India beggar-free
Ayodhya in the north to Guwahati in the east and Trimbakeshwar in the west to Thiruvananthapuram in the south for a comprehensive survey and rehabilitation initiative, focusing particularly on adults, including women and children, a TOI report stated. As per the report, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is set to collaborate with district and municipal authorities to pinpoint 'hotspots' in these cities, with the ambitious goal of making them beggar-free by 2026.
Officials indicate that more cities might join the list over the next two years.
This extensive outreach, covering cities with cultural, historical, or tourist significance, falls under a sub-scheme of 'Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprises' (SMILE). The ministry is gearing up to launch a national portal and a mobile app by mid-February, facilitating real-time updates on data related to individuals engaged in begging.
This initiative aligns with the ministry's vision for a 'Bhiksha-Vritti Mukt Bharat' (beggary-free India).
Among the identified cities, action plans have been received from 25, while Kangra, Cuttack, Udaipur, and Kushinagar are yet to provide their consent. Notably, authorities in Sanchi have reported no individuals engaged in begging in their area, suggesting the consideration of a different city.
Meanwhile, Kozhikode, Vijayawada, Madurai, and Mysuru have already completed their surveys.
Funds are released by the ministry to the implementing district and municipal authorities based on their action plans. The comprehensive roadmap involves surveying, mobilization, rescue, relocation to shelters, and holistic rehabilitation, encompassing education, skill development, and employment opportunities for
