New Delhi, Delhi, 11th of July 2025 : The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (M/o SJE) organized a National Workshop and Orientation Programme today at Indore, focusing on the SMILE Sub-Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons Engaged in the Act of Begging (SMILE-B).TheInaugural Session was presided over by Secretary (D/o SJE), Shri 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:
- Technical Sessions covered various components of rescue and rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of begging through real-life success stories and expert sessions of Livelihood opportunities via skill development (NSDC presentation) and Counselling methodology by resource person of NISD, including a panel discussion with nodal officers from 6 States, sharing field experiences and the day programme was concluded with training on SOP and best practices by Ministry Officials.
- Experience sharing by beneficiaries who have successfully transitioned out of begging and undergone rehabilitation.
- Stakeholder Consultation: Stakeholders, led by Additional Secretary (D/o SJE), discussed revised SMILE guidelines, cost norms, and strategies for improved implementation and possible extension beyond FY 2025–26.
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