Ahmedabad: Gujarat has launched a rehabilitation programme to make Vadodara, Gir Somnath, Ekta Nagar and Pavagadh and 21 other places free of beggary as part of central govt’s SMILE (support for marginalised individuals for livelihood and enterprise) campaign. These locations had performed well in the first phase of the campaign. Mona Khandhar, additional secretary, ministry of social justice and empowerment, chaired a meeting in Vadodara to review the campaign, which is being implemented under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi.The programme will involve coordinated efforts by municipal corporations, district administrations, and departments such as health, social security, and employment. People involved in begging will receive shelter, health screening, and help obtaining essential documents such as Aadhaar, ration cards, and Ayushman cards.Vadodara police commissioner Narasimha Komar suggested that families involved in begging should be accommodated in shelters. He also stressed the need for continuous follow-up after individuals receive skill training and employment to ensure they remain engaged in work.Khandhar said families would initially stay in rehabilitation centres for six months. During this period, they will receive employment-oriented skill training. With support from social and voluntary organisations, begging spots will be identified, and people will be shifted from those locations to designated shelters.
