Indore (Madhya Pradesh), [India], July 11 : The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (M/o SJE) organised a National Workshop and Orientation Programme on Friday at Indore, focusing on the SMILE Sub-Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons Engaged in the Act of Begging (SMILE-B).
According to a statement, the Inaugural Session was presided over by Secretary (D/o SJE), Amit Yadav, along with participation from senior dignitaries from the Central and State Governments.
This one-day national workshop brought together State Nodal Officers, representatives from Urban Local Bodies, NGOs, and members of the Expert Network for a focused dialogue on strengthening the implementation of SMILE-B, with special emphasis on rescue, primary rehabilitation, and livelihood convergence.
Highlights of the workshop included technical sessions on rescue and rehabilitation strategies through real-life success stories, skill development presentations by NSDC, and counselling methodologies shared by NISD experts.
A panel discussion with nodal officers from six states brought forward field-level experiences, followed by training on SOPs and best practices led by Ministry officials. Beneficiaries who have successfully exited begging also shared their rehabilitation journeys.
Additionally, stakeholders, under the leadership of the Additional Secretary (D/o SJE), deliberated on revised SMILE guidelines, updated cost norms, and strategies for enhancing implementation, including a possible extension of the scheme beyond FY 2025-26.
In his keynote address, Amit Yadav emphasised the Government's unwavering commitment to the comprehensive rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of beggary and highlighted the need for unified action, capacity building, and data-driven implementation for impactful outcomes.
Sonali Ponkshe Vayangankar, Principal Secretary, Social Justice and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department (MP), highlighted the initiatives towards inclusive rehabilitation and also stressed the significance of interdepartmental coordination for the effective implementation of the comprehensive rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of beggary.
In her address, AS (D/o SJE), Ms. Caralyn K. Deshmukh reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to inclusive and dignified social support.
Launched in October 2023, the SMILE Scheme (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) is a landmark initiative aimed at achieving a 'Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat', a Begging-Free India, through the coordinated efforts of Central and State Governments, Urban Local Bodies, Civil Society Organisations, and various implementation agencies.
With over 22,410 individuals identified and 3,400 rehabilitated till date, the SMILE Scheme is poised to scale up its impact in Phase 3, covering 100 cities across 34 States/UTs.
The National Implementation Workshop and National-level consultation brought together State nodal officers, District nodal officers, NGOs, and Implementation agencies from over 23 States/UTs and 67 Districts across the country, as well as State Governments.
The event, attended by MP, NISD, and Government of India senior officers, underscores the government's commitment to dignity, inclusion, and sustainable livelihoods for the most marginalised sections of society. During the workshop, Secretary Amit Yadav also reviewed the merchandise produced by rehabilitated beggars.