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Government amended the 'SMILE' scheme, special strategy for the rehabilitation of beggars
SMILE: The Center has revised its flagship rehabilitation scheme SMILE for beggars. Its annual budget has been kept at Rs 37 crore to ensure that they move towards self-reliance and a dignified life.
The article has updated the government's flagship SMILE scheme to provide beggars with a life of dignity. Its budget for the year has been set at Rs 37 crore. Authorities have stated that the new SMILE scheme follows a rights-based rehabilitation model rather than a punitive framework. It aims to mainstream the vulnerable sections by giving them structured help.
The new SMILE (Assistance to Marginalized Persons for Livelihood and Enterprise) scheme is based on four pillars. It includes survey and identification, contact and awareness, rescue and shelter, and holistic rehabilitation. Through these measures, an attempt will be made to provide long-term rehabilitation and social respect to the most marginalized groups of the country.
The scheme will be launched with emphasis on pilgrimage centres, religious places, historical sites, and tourist places throughout the country in association with the state administration and concerned organisations. According to the amended guidelines of the scheme, religious trusts and shrine boards will also be responsible for the implementation of the scheme at pilgrimage centres and religious sites.
