. Despite the enforcement of Anti-Beggary legislations by 16 States and 2 Union Territories, the problem still continues

The problem of beggary persists even today with its socio-cultural and economic ramifications. But, unfortunately, there is no information about the size and magnitude of the problem. The most disturbing feature is begging under various kinds of compulsions and the worst are those who are inducted into begging by force by anti-social elements. Despite the enforcement of Anti-Beggary legislations by 16 States and 2 Union Territories, the problem still continues to exist in its worst form as begging has become a profession for many, as they find it as an easy means of livelihood. The other problems related to begging include : ineffective enforcement of legislation; non- existence/inadequate number of Reception Homes/Beggars' Homes; and lack of standards in the services provided in the mandatory institutions owing to the existing variations in their respective legal provisions and administrative procedures. Presently, the approach for tackling this problem is based primarily on punitive devices with very little scope for any diversified programmes of treatment and rehabilitation, neither for the able-bodied nor for the disabled beggars. These problems, therefore, need special attention in the Ninth Plan as they can leave the most damaging effects on the otherwise healthy growth of the society.