Survey to make Cuttack beggar-free

CUTTACK: In a bid to make the district beggar-free, the administration has decided to launch a programme for identification and rehabilitation of people living on alms.

Acting on the direction of Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disability (SSEPD), the district administration in a meeting on Wednesday announced that it has prepared a blueprint to identify and rehabilitate beggars.

In the first phase, a one-day survey will be conducted across the district comprising 14 blocks and four urban local bodies(ULBs) on May 20 to identify persons depending on alms for their livelihood. The focus would be on beggars at Cuttack railway station, Badambadi bus stand, Chandi Mandir site and headquarters of Choudwar Municipality, Athagarh and Banki NACs.

The district administration has roped in around 70 volunteers of NGOs and community organisers in ULBs and Anganwadi workers and social security officers in blocks for the survey, said Collector Nirmal Chandra Mishra.

After identification, the beggars will be counselled for rehabilitation considering their status, strength and ability. While child beggars will be provided education, adults will be imparted vocational training. The destitute and elderly will be provided free accommodation, food and healthcare.  Besides, the administration has also decided to take stern action against unscrupulous elements involved in running begging rackets, Mishra added.