Indore, known for its cleanliness, has achieved another remarkable milestone—it is now India’s first beggar-free city. District Magistrate Ashish Singh announced that nearly 5,000 beggars have been rehabilitated since the campaign began in February 2024. Children were admitted to schools, and adults were trained and placed in jobs, turning lives around.
Rehabilitation Over Rejection
Unlike punitive approaches, Indore’s campaign focused on rehabilitation and inclusion. In the initial phase, authorities ran awareness programs and identified individuals who migrated from nearby states like Rajasthan. Officials helped them find livelihoods instead of criminalizing their condition. This human-first strategy won recognition from the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the World Bank.
Strict Measures with Community Involvement
To support the initiative, begging, giving money to beggars, and purchasing from street beggars have been officially banned in the city. So far, three FIRs have been lodged for violations. Citizens are encouraged to participate in maintaining the city’s status, with a Rs 1,000 reward given to anyone who provides actionable information about beggars—many have already claimed it.
Focus on Children and Future Generations
Out of the 5,000 beggars, approximately 500 were children. These young individuals have been given a fresh start through school enrollment and access to support systems. This intervention not only improves their present but also secures their future, breaking the cycle of poverty and street dependency.
A Model for Other Cities
Indore’s success serves as a model for nine other cities selected for the pilot project by the Union Ministry. Officials emphasize that the campaign is not just about removing beggars from public view but about offering them dignity, purpose, and opportunity. The involvement of multiple departments, including Women and Child Development, underscores the coordinated effort behind this achievement.
Conclusion
With its beggar-free status, Indore continues to lead by example in urban governance. The city has proven that social change is possible through compassion, structure, and civic participation—setting the bar for inclusive urban development in India.
