REASI, MAY 14: In a significant step towards rehabilitation and social inclusion of vulnerable sections, the district administration Reasi, in collaboration with Prayas Juvenile Aid Centre Society, today launched a district-wide awareness campaign under the Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Scheme.
Deputy Commissioner Kumar Abhishek flagged off an awareness vehicle from the DC Office Complex, aimed at sensitizing the public to the objectives of the SMILE and discouraging the practice of beggary in the district.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of sustained awareness and rehabilitation efforts for marginalized individuals. He stated that the administration is continuously implementing rehabilitation initiatives in the district to ensure dignified livelihood opportunities and social reintegration for vulnerable persons.
He informed that the awareness vehicle will travel across various areas of the district to educate the public about the ill effects of beggary and the support mechanisms available under the SMILE Scheme. The campaign will also focus on encouraging community participation in rehabilitation and welfare initiatives.
The Deputy Commissioner further informed that, under the SMILE Scheme, as many as 85 children rescued from beggary have been rehabilitated so far at the designated rehabilitation centre.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Nitin Verma, DSWO and other officers were present during the programme.