Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 26: The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE), in collaboration with the World Bank, hosted a seminar in the national capital to discuss strategies for rehabilitating beggars, the homeless, and the destitute under the SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) initiative.
Held under the theme ‘Hard to Reach Population – SMILE (Beggary)’, the event brought together national and international experts as part of a knowledge seminar series aimed at strengthening social protection systems for India's most vulnerable.
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, stressed the need to hear directly from those who have transitioned out of begging to better understand root causes and support mechanisms. He also highlighted the social, religious, and economic complexities surrounding the issue.
Benedicte Leroy De La Briere, Lead Economist, World Bank, emphasized the importance of providing foundational documentation like registered addresses and bank accounts to aid rehabilitation efforts.
Presentations from nodal officers and grassroots organisations showcased on-ground realities and success stories.
Ajay Srivastava, Economic Advisor (MoSJ&E), revealed that around 18,000 individuals have been identified under SMILE, with 1,612 already rehabilitated, and assured efforts are ongoing to support the remaining individuals.