The problem of begging, in my view, needs to be tackled at the grassroots level and all sections of society should contribute to it - be it the Central or State government or the NGOs, private organisations and individuals like you and I. Imparting education and creating employment for these unprivileged fellows can be a promising solution to the problem. But what is on paper should be actually implemented. Emphasis should be placed on vocational education so the children of beggars do not in turn become beggars but earn their livelihood, instead. The beggar homes that exist must be rendered habitable. Actually there are so many things which can be done or which are already being practised, but the question is their effectiveness. India is suffering from a serious malaise, viz., corruption because of which all efforts become futile. Another aspect to be considered is counselling. Leading a respectable life is the right of every human being but these people have left behind their self-respect and ego before coming to this profession. Counselling them on the importance of basic human traits like self-esteem or self-respect may lead them to give up begging. No doubt, counselling them into working to earn a living is a tough job. But if we really want this so-called ugly face (read beggars) of India to vanish, such measures should be launched on top priority. Can we hope that our children or their children will not get to see beggars, not even outside temples and other religious places?
