Government Aims for Beggar-Free Metropolises with New Initiatives
A strategic meeting titled “Welfare and Rehabilitation of Transgender Persons and Beggars” took place yesterday at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, presided over by the Hon’ble Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. The focus of the session was on a commitment to creating beggar-free environments in six major metropolitan cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. This ambitious initiative aims to be accomplished through the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, including Municipal Corporations, Urban Local Bodies, State Social Welfare Departments, and various Central Ministries.
Collaboration and Commitment
The meeting, which was attended in a hybrid format by representatives from various Municipal Corporations and State Social Welfare Departments, shed light on ongoing challenges faced by transgender individuals engaged in beggary, particularly at traffic signals in urban areas. Despite the establishment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in 2019, concerns persist regarding the dignity and safety of transgender individuals. To address these issues, the focus was defined on the identified metropolitan areas with the goal of achieving a state devoid of begging.
Key Government Initiatives
During the proceedings, the Secretary of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment showcased several vital initiatives aimed at improving the lives of transgender persons and beggars. Among these initiatives is the upcoming Equal Opportunity Policy for Transgender Persons (2024) and the introduction of the National Transgender Portal. Additional measures including the issuance of Transgender Identity Cards, Ayushman Cards, and the establishment of Garima Grehs were discussed. The SMILE Scheme, which addresses the specific needs of both transgender individuals and the beggary issue, was highlighted as a crucial step towards social inclusion.
Intensive Action Plans
Presentations detailed current progress in implementing welfare measures and the ongoing challenges in rehabilitating transgender individuals involved in beggary. The SMILE (Beggary) Scheme is currently undergoing trials in Delhi and Hyderabad, with plans for future expansion. The Hon’ble Minister called upon all states to initiate a focused, one-month campaign in collaboration with NGOs aimed at skill development, job placement, and rehabilitation for those engaged in begging.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with a strong reaffirmation of the collective commitment among all parties involved to realize the vision of beggar-free cities. The Minister also indicated that cities which achieve this status may receive incentives, reinforcing the social emphasis on the empowerment and inclusion of vulnerable populations, particularly transgender persons and beggars.
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