Context
Recently, the Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment launched the Central Sector Scheme “SMILE: Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise”.
Key-Points
- SMILE scheme is set to provide welfare and rehabilitation to the Transgender community and the people engaged in the act of begging.
- SMILE Scheme is a central sector scheme, designed and being implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
- The Ministry has allocated Rs. 365 Crore for the scheme from 2021-22 to 2025-26.
- The SMILE initiative aims to reinforce and broaden the reach of rights that provide targeted groups with the legal protection and security they require.
- It considers the numerous dimensions of identity, education, medical care, shelter, and occupational prospects essential for social security.
SMILE Sub Schemes
- Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons-
- Scholarships for Transgender Students studying in IX and till post-graduation to complete their education.
- Skill Development and Livelihood under PM-DAKSH scheme.
- Composite Medical Health package in convergence with PM-JAY to support Gender-Reaffirmation surgeries through selected hospitals
- Shelter Homes' Garima Greh, where all the basic facilities (food, clothing, medical support), recreational facilities, and skill development opportunities, will be provided.
- Transgender Protection Cell will be set up in each state to monitor offenses and ensure timely registration, investigation, and prosecution.
- Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of Begging-
- Survey and Identification of beneficiaries by Implementing Agencies.
- Outreach work will be done for mobilising the persons engaged in begging to avail services available in Shelter Homes.
- Shelter homes will facilitate education for children engaged in the act of Begging.
