From The Streets To Self-Reliance

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) Scheme has facilitated the comprehensive rehabilitation and livelihood support of an individual named Meera Thakur. Rescued from homelessness and begging in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, through an implementing partner organization, she received medical care, psychological counseling, institutional shelter, and skill development training. Through the scheme's interventions, she transitioned from depending on alms to earning a structured income through handicrafts, kitchen management responsibilities at the rehabilitation center, and participation in public markets, illustrating the scheme's approach to holistic rehabilitation, dignity, and self-reliance.