Bhubaneswar to Roll Out SMILE Scheme for Beggar Rehabilitation

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is gearing up to implement the SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) scheme, a central government initiative launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Phase 1 Highlights: The scheme targets beggar rehabilitation through structured support such as housing, skill development, and livelihood opportunities, helping individuals re-enter mainstream society. Extended to More Cities: While BMC leads the way in Bhubaneswar, Phase 2 of the scheme is also set to launch in Cuttack, Puri, and Jajpur—though detailed plans for these cities are yet to be unveiled.

Current Scenario: According to data shared in the Odisha Assembly: 🧭 The Road Ahead: Efforts will align with Odisha’s vision to make tourist spots like Niladri Nilaya (Puri) and Ekamra Nilaya (Bhubaneswar) beggar-free Despite past challenges—such as limited success under the 2023 SAHAYA drive—officials are optimistic that SMILE’s integrated and targeted approach will lead to tangible results..