KTMF Welcomes Srinagar Administration's Move To Curb Begging Under SMILE Scheme
18/06/2026
Srinagar, June 18 (KIP)-The Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), Senior Vice President Sofi Mohi-ud-Din, has warmly welcomed and appreciated the decision of the District Administration Srinagar to implement a ban on begging in public places under the SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) Scheme, describing it as a progressive and humane initiative aimed at addressing a long-standing social challenge.
In a statement issued here, Sofi Mohi-ud-Din expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar and the district administration for taking what he termed a visionary step towards safeguarding human dignity, promoting social welfare and ensuring better civic management across the city.
He said the SMILE Scheme represents a comprehensive and compassionate approach that seeks not merely to remove the visible manifestations of poverty but to rehabilitate vulnerable individuals through livelihood opportunities, skill development programmes, counselling and social support mechanisms.
He said "The initiative reflects a balanced approach that combines social responsibility with effective governance. It aims to empower marginalized individuals by providing them with sustainable means of livelihood while ensuring that public spaces remain orderly, accessible and welcoming for residents and visitors alike".
Highlighting the wider benefits of the initiative, Sofi Mohi-ud-Din noted that the implementation of this scheme would help improve public convenience in markets, hospitals, commercial centres and traffic intersections while creating a more organized urban environment.
He further observed that the move would help curb the menace of organized begging networks and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable persons, particularly women and children, while facilitating rehabilitation for genuinely needy individuals through institutional support and welfare measures.
The KTMF leader added that a cleaner, more disciplined and tourist-friendly atmosphere would strengthen Srinagar's image as a modern and responsible city, benefiting not only the tourism sector but also the local business community and the general public.
Sofi Mohi-ud-Din urged traders, business associations, civil society groups, religious organizations and citizens to extend full cooperation to the District Administration in ensuring the successful implementation of the initiative.
He emphasized that lasting social change requires collective participation and that society must focus on rehabilitation, empowerment and sustainable support systems rather than encouraging dependency through street begging.
Reaffirming the commitment of the traders' fraternity towards social welfare and community development, Sofi Mohi-ud-Din said the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation stands firmly with the District Administration Srinagar in all efforts aimed at promoting human dignity, public welfare, civic discipline and inclusive development.