A coordinated effort involving Ahmedabad’s civic administration, police, and the Union government aims to create a structured rehabilitation framework to eliminate begging in the city under the SMILE scheme. Led by Mona Khandhar, a review meeting discussed the establishment of “Beggary Homes” to offer shelter, support, and services to individuals engaged in begging. Each shelter home, accommodating around 50 people, will receive a grant of Rs 55 lakh for healthcare, skill development, and employment opportunities.
This initiative, part of the SMILE scheme, will focus on providing rehabilitation centers with comprehensive services, including healthcare, skill training, employment connections, and access to welfare programs. The plan also involves collaboration between the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, law enforcement, and allied departments to facilitate rehabilitation efforts, such as family reunification, care for the elderly and disabled, and employment support for capable individuals.
In a recent operation, 244 individuals, including adults and children, were rescued from various locations in Ahmedabad as part of the city’s ongoing “beggar-free city” campaign. These individuals are being placed in shelter-based care and connected to rehabilitation processes, including education, skill training, welfare schemes, and family reunification where possible.
