DC Leh Santosh Sukhdeve chairs meeting for implementation of SMILE scheme of MoSJE. 

Emphasises on eradication of begging activities in Leh and rehabilitation of beggars under the scheme of the ministry.

Leh, April 25, 2025: The Deputy Commissioner Leh Santosh Sukhadeve convened a meeting regarding implementation of a comprehensive program for rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of begging in Leh under the SMILE Scheme of MoSJE in VC room DC office Leh. 

During the meeting, it was discussed that the primary goal of the scheme is to empower beneficiaries to exit begging and achieve financial independence through sustainable income opportunities. 

The Deputy Commissioner Leh directed the concerned departments to hire a suitable local NGO to conduct a thorough survey of this population and effectively implement the scheme, overseen by a dedicated Nodal Officer. He emphasised on eradication of begging activities in Leh and rehabilitation of beggars under the scheme of the ministry.

The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Shruti Arora, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ghulam Mohd and officers and officials from the Social Welfare Department and Municipal Committee Leh.

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