Srinagar district takes lead in implementation of SMILE scheme
across J&K
DC Srinagar visits Rehabilitation Home for persons involved in the
act of Begging; takes stock of the available facilities
Says initiative
aimed to rehabilitate and reintegrate beggars into Society to ensure their
dignified life under SMILE scheme
SRINAGAR, JANUARY 11: With an aim to
rehabilitate and facilitate beggars to join mainstream to live a dignified life
under SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and
Enterprise) scheme in District, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr Bilal
Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat Saturday visited newly established Rehabilitation Home for
persons engaged in the act of Begging here at Hawal.
Notably, Srinagar has become the
first District in Jammu and Kashmir to implement the SMILE scheme launched by
the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in 2022, to rehabilitate
and reintegrate beggars into society.
During the visit, the DC was
accompanied by Chief Planning Officer, District Social Welfare Officer,
Tehsildar Eidgah, NGO members and other concerned.
On the occasion, the DC took a
detailed round of the Rehabilitation Home and inspected the facilities and
rehabilitation measures for the persons engaged in the act of Begging.
While interacting with the Officers
and staff of the Rehabilitation Centre, the DC said that the initiative has
been taken to address the issue of begging in the District under SMILE (Support
for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) scheme.
The DC added that the SMILE scheme
will provide beggars with vocational training and livelihood opportunities,
aiming to empower them to become self-sufficient. He emphasized a holistic approach, focusing
on social reintegration and the well-being of marginalized individuals.
Dr Bilal further said that special
provisions will be made for children found begging. He said they will be
enrolled in schools to ensure their education and development. He said that the
District Administration is committed not only to eliminate begging but also to
ensure that those affected receive the support they need to earn livelihood
with dignity and honour.
Meanwhile, the DC has stressed the
staff of the Rehabilitation home to work in a compassionate manner towards the
affected section of the society and enable them to lead a life of value and
dignity.