The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced on 12 October 2026 that it will hold a programme in Delhi on 14 October to advance the 'Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat' vision. The government is using the SMILE–Beggary Scheme to provide rehabilitation, healthcare, and skill development to people engaged in begging. The scheme is currently active in 216 cities across 33 States and Union Territories, with a goal to make 100 cities begging-free by 2031. The release does not say when the overall scheme takes effect, but notes it was piloted in Delhi in FY 2021–22.
Key points
- Target: 100 Begging-Free Cities by 2031
- Reach: 45,073 persons identified; 13,134 have received rehabilitation support
- Scope: Currently implemented in 216 cities across 33 States and Union Territories
- Delhi Status: Operational across all 14 districts/cities of Delhi
- Support: Includes skill-building, rehabilitation kits, and social security convergence
When it applies
- Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat programme
- SMILE–Beggary Scheme target period
- target of 100 Begging-Free Cities
Who it affects
- persons engaged in begging