Welcome to GKboard.in, your go-to source for current affairs updates designed for competitive exams. Today, we explore Indore’s groundbreaking achievement as India’s first beggar-free city, a milestone in social welfare and rehabilitation. This topic is essential for aspirants preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government recruitment tests.
Indore’s Beggar-Free Milestone
A Transformative Initiative
Indore has been declared India’s first beggar-free city, as announced by District Magistrate Ashish Singh. Launched in February 2024, this initiative successfully rehabilitated approximately 5,000 beggars. The campaign has earned praise from the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and a World Bank team, highlighting its impact on social welfare.
Campaign Details
Strategic Phases of Implementation
The campaign to eliminate begging in Indore unfolded in multiple phases. It began with an awareness campaign to educate the public, followed by a focus on rehabilitation. Key efforts included enrolling children in schools and helping adults secure employment. The initiative addresses the root causes of begging, ensuring sustainable outcomes.
Rehabilitation Process
Tailored Support for Different Groups
The rehabilitation process categorizes beggars into three groups: habitual beggars (60%), those driven by financial difficulties, mental illness, or physical disabilities (20%), and individuals forced into begging, such as children and drug addicts (20%). Each group receives customized support, including education, job training, and healthcare, to meet their specific needs.
Community Involvement
Grassroots Engagement
Community engagement has been pivotal to the campaign’s success. Special efforts targeted communities like the Nath and Nut Samaj, who often resist rehabilitation centres. By providing training and support within their communities, the initiative built trust and encouraged participation, ensuring a grassroots approach to social change.
Government and Institutional Support
Enforcement and Incentives
The campaign received strong backing from government bodies. A unique feature is the ban on both begging and giving money to beggars, with FIRs registered for violations. A reward system incentivizes citizens to report begging, enhancing enforcement. This comprehensive support has driven the initiative’s success in Indore.
International Recognition
World Bank’s Praise
The World Bank conducted a survey of Indore’s initiative, commending it as a model for other Indian cities. The team found no beggars in previously affected areas and visited a rehabilitation centre offering shelter, psychological counselling, and skill development. Their findings will be submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office for further evaluation.
Future Prospects
A Replicable Model
Indore’s beggar-free initiative is in a testing phase, with an upcoming inspection by the Ministry of Social Justice. If successful, it could serve as a replicable model for other Indian cities, transforming social welfare and rehabilitation approaches nationwide and addressing poverty at its core.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Students
Indore’s achievement is a crucial topic for competitive exam aspirants, as questions on social welfare, urban development, and government initiatives frequently appear in exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking. Focus on the rehabilitation process, community involvement, and international recognition to strengthen your preparation.
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Posted on: May 9, 2025