The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced on 28 October 2026 the successful rehabilitation of a homeless woman under the SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) Scheme. The individual received medical treatment, psychological counselling, and vocational training in crafts such as tailoring and incense-stick production. Through these supports, she now earns approximately Rs 8,000 per month selling handmade products and manages kitchen operations for 50–60 beneficiaries. The release does not say when the scheme takes effect, but highlights a rescue that occurred on 16 March 2024.
Key points
- SMILE Scheme provides institutional care, medical treatment, and livelihood support for marginalised individuals.
- Beneficiary trained in making carpets, door mats, tailoring, and eco-friendly products.
- Individual now earns approximately Rs 8,000 per month through handmade products.
When it applies
- rescue of a woman from District Court Shani Mandir in Indore
- workshop organised by the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD)
Who it affects
- marginalised individuals