Planning To Visit Indore After January 1? Here's What You Need To Know About The City's No-Alms Policy

Indore is all set to transform its streets and make life better for everyone. Starting January 1, 2025, the city will ban giving money to beggars. This step is part of the Union government’s SMILE scheme (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) and the Bhiksha Vriti Mukta Bharat program. The idea is to tackle begging as a socio-economic problem and make Indore a shining example for other cities.

Indore's no-alms policy from january 2025

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Helping Beggars, Not Punishing Them  

Indore began its mission in February 2024 with a counseling campaign for beggars and their families. Over 300 people were sent to Ujjain’s Sevadham Ashram, where they promised to leave begging behind. The city also ran de-addiction camps for those struggling with substance abuse. District Collector Asheesh Singh made it clear that this initiative isn’t about punishment. Instead, it focuses on giving people a fresh start and restoring their dignity.

Spreading Awareness  

From September to December, the city worked hard to educate residents. People were urged not to give money to beggars, as it keeps them stuck in a cycle of dependency. Starting January 1, those who break the rule—by either begging or giving alms—will face legal action. Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, violators can be fined ₹1,000 or even face six months in jail.

What Is The SMILE Scheme?  

The SMILE scheme is all about finding long-term solutions to begging. It focuses on creating awareness, providing rehabilitation, offering education, and teaching new skills. Indore’s Social Welfare Department has teamed up with local organizations to give beggars shelter and vocational training. The goal is to help them stand on their own feet and rejoin society with confidence.  

Social Welfare Minister Narayan Singh Kushwaha shared how an Indore-based organization provides shelter for six months and helps people find jobs. Surprisingly, many beggars were not actually poor—they owned farmland and had money in the bank!  

An Equitable Solution

Indore conjures hopes which promise a more clean and organized future city. In one such place though, it tends to remind us that begging is one deep-rooted socio-economic issue. Back in 2021, the Supreme Court declined absolutely banning begging, since it can closely be associated with the lack of jobs and education. 

Indore is moving forward in compassion and rehabilitation rather than laying down the law. By addressing the roots of begging and rehabilitating the apparent causes, Indore is showing the way to recognize real sustainable change. 

A Better Future For All

This initiative is indeed bold toward creating a better community; it does not just revolve around an end to begging, but imbues hope, dignity, and a better chance in life. This sets a precedent in the entire country, of which we can be truly proud. Let this change be embraced, and look to the brighter future for one and all!