COMMUNITY CONNECT PROJECT

ON

Beggar population:a profile (A peek into life of beggars )

Submitted as part of the requirements for Community Connect program

(CCU701)

By the Students of
Sharda University
Sharda School of Humanities and Social Sciences
B.A. English (6th semester)

Under the Guidance of

Dr. Brinda Chowdhari
Assistant Professor

SHARDA UNIVERSITY
SHARDA SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Knowledge Park III
Greater NOIDA
PARTICIPANTS DETAILS

* Henthoi Chanu Maibam -2022421924

*Shaksham Kumar –2022509127

*Kajal –2022310994

*Swarnima-2022007710
*Ishita-2022004172
 SHARDA UNIVERSITY
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Sharda university,
Knowledge Park III,
Greater NOIDA, (UP) 201310
India
www.sharda.ac.in

Certificate of Completion

This is to certify that the Community Connect project titled “LIFE OF BEGGARS” by
Shaksham Kumar 2022509137 Henthoi Maibam (2022421924), Ishita Singh
(2022004172), Kajal (2022310994), Swarnima (2022007710)has been completed for
January-April 2025. The work has been found (Excellent, good, satisfactory) towards the
partial fulfilment of bachelor’s degree.

(Prof. (Dr.) Anviti Gupta) (Supervisor, Community Connect,

SSHSS)
Dean (SSHSS)
 Declaration Certificate

We, Shaksham Kumar, Henthoi Maibam, Kajal, Ishita Singh, Swarnima students of
B.A. English (6th semester) Sharda university, officially certify that we are the primary
authors of the research paper titled "LIFE OF BEGGARS ". The paper is the result of our
own research and data gathered. It is a record of original work and has not been submitted
previously at this university.

Name of the students System Id Signature of the Students

Shaksham Kumar 2022509137

Henthoi Maibam 20224211924

Kajal 2022310994

Ishita Singh 2022004172

Table of Contents
1. Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………1
2. Introduction………………………………………………………………………………..1
3. Literature review…………………………………………………………………………..3
4. Objective…………………………………………………………………………………..4
5. Research Methodology……………………………………………………………………4
5.1. Data Collection…………………………………………………………………….4
5.2. Data Analysis………………………………………………………………………5
5.3. Area Study…………………………………………………………………………5
6. Data Description…………………………………………………………………………..6
7. Discussion…………………………………………………………………………………8
8. Conclusions……………………………………………………………………………….10
References………………………………………………………………………………...…12
Appendix…………………………………………………………………………………….13
Life of Beggars

1. ABSTRACT

Begging is one of the most visible and pressing social issues faced by urban India today. Seen
outside temples, metro stations, marketplaces, and traffic signals, beggars form a segment of
society often judged and ignored. Yet, their presence speaks volumes about the deeper
systemic failures—poverty, lack of education, unemployment, disability, and displacement.
Begging is not a chosen lifestyle for many, but rather a survival mechanism in the absence of
alternatives.

This study aims to humanize the lives of beggars by documenting their backgrounds, causes
of destitution, and coping strategies. It also evaluates the current public perception and
suggests community-based and government-supported solutions. Data was collected from
urban areas including Delhi and Noida using interviews, surveys, and field observations. The
findings emphasize the urgent need for inclusive, compassionate policies that focus on
rehabilitation rather than punishment. Community awareness, empathy, and practical
initiatives are key to transforming the lives of the most marginalized.

2. INTRODUCTION

India is a land of vast diversity and contrasts, where technological advancement and
economic development coexist with deep-rooted poverty and social inequality. One of the
most visible manifestations of this inequality is the presence of beggars on the streets of our
towns and cities. Begging has been an age-old phenomenon, yet it continues to persist in the
21st century, despite efforts from governments and non-governmental organizations to
alleviate poverty. The issue is not only a matter of social discomfort but also of human rights
and dignity. Beggars are often viewed through a lens of pity, suspicion, or irritation, yet their
lives are rarely understood or explored in depth.

The presence of beggars in urban spaces such as traffic intersections, marketplaces, railway
stations, and religious institutions often elicits mixed emotions from the public. For many,
they are a symbol of societal failure; for others, they are merely a nuisance. However, each
beggar has a unique story that deserves attention—stories of suffering, displacement,
abandonment, mental illness, or disability. In many cases, individuals do not choose to beg
but are forced into it by circumstances beyond their control. These circumstances include
unemployment, domestic violence, loss of earning members in the family, physical and
mental challenges, and the breakdown of traditional family support systems.

This Community Connect project was conceptualized with the aim of delving into the life of
beggars—not just to understand who they are or how many exist, but to listen to their voices,
understand their struggles, and find out what they hope for. The project goes beyond the
surface and tries to humanize individuals who are often viewed as societal outcasts. It aims to
develop empathy and foster a sense of responsibility among students and community
members.

The importance of this study lies in its potential to bridge the gap between the mainstream
society and the marginalized. Understanding the life of beggars allows us to see beyond the
Life of Beggars

stereotypes and recognize their humanity. Moreover, it sheds light on the systemic gaps in
our society that lead to such extreme forms of marginalization. These include gaps in
healthcare, education, employment opportunities, social security, and legal protection.

The study also addresses the urgent need to differentiate between voluntary begging and
forced or organized begging. While a small section of beggars may operate within organized
networks, the vast majority are victims of unfortunate circumstances. Equating all beggars
with fraudsters or criminals leads to policies that further criminalize and punish them instead
of offering support and rehabilitation. It is essential that law enforcement, policy makers, and
civil society recognize this distinction to create effective, compassionate, and inclusive
interventions.

This project explores the lives of beggars in Delhi-NCR, with a focus on their backgrounds,
health, safety, sources of income, and aspirations. Through field visits, surveys, and
interviews, the research team engaged directly with beggars and members of the public to
collect data. The research methodology was designed to be inclusive and respectful, ensuring
that participants' dignity was preserved at every stage.

Another critical aspect of the project is its focus on public perception. How society views
beggars greatly influences how they are treated, both by individuals and institutions. By
including public opinion in our study, we aim to explore the root causes of prejudice and
propose ways to replace ignorance with understanding. A large part of solving the issue lies
in changing public attitudes—from indifference and annoyance to empathy and action.

Furthermore, the study investigates the role of government policies, welfare schemes, and
non-profit organizations in addressing the issue of begging. Despite the presence of shelters,
employment schemes, and food distribution programs, why do so many people still end up on
the streets? Are the existing mechanisms enough, or is there a need for more targeted and
sustained efforts? These questions are vital to formulating meaningful solutions.

This Community Connect project is more than a research assignment; it is a call to action. It
urges students, educators, administrators, and policy-makers to pay attention to a section of
society that is often ignored. It asks the academic community to apply knowledge and skills
not just to understand social issues but to become part of the solution.

By documenting and analyzing the lives of beggars, this study hopes to contribute to the
broader discourse on poverty, inequality, and social justice in India. It also emphasizes the
importance of community engagement in building a compassionate society. Only by
acknowledging and addressing the needs of the most vulnerable can we move toward a future
that is truly inclusive and humane.

3. LITERATURE REVIEW

According to Dr. Mukerjee (1943) , beggary is indicative of societal dysfunction, and the
widespread tradition of donating to beggars by both individuals and organisations has been a
way to ease the suffering, vulnerability, or social deficiencies faced by these individuals in
India. Nevertheless, this entrenched habit of providing aid to the homeless and marginalized
allows society to ignore the significant personal and social factors that lead to beggary.
Modern ethical considerations call for an investigation and understanding of these root
Life of Beggars

causes, urging Indian society to adopt a proactive approach instead of simply addressing the
inadequacies and hardships of individuals collectively.

Erskine(2000), examines the dynamics of interactions with people who beg. It does so by
analyzing individuals' perceptions and encounters with those who approach them for help.
The information is gathered from conversations with individuals employed in downtown
Edinburgh who frequently encounter begging situations. These interactions are often
problematic, and we contend that this is partly due to the unclear nature of the engagement.
The act of giving is often ambiguous and differs significantly from other financial exchanges
we typically engage in. Moral questions about the authenticity or sincerity of beggars become
pivotal when making decisions about whether to contribute or not. Feelings of uncertainty
and conflict were prevalent in people's understandings and attitudes towards individuals who
beg.

Khan (2013), aims to examine the socio-economic challenges encountered by beggars and the
government assistance they receive, along with suggestions from the authors for improving
their living standards in Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh. The study utilizes primary data
collected through a field survey conducted in Aligarh district in 2009. The findings indicate
that the primary issues faced by beggars include poverty, unemployment, inadequate access
to electricity, sanitation, safe drinking water, decent housing, lack of ration cards, insufficient
funds for marrying off their daughters, and various health issues. The assistance provided by
the government to beggars is limited to voter identity cards and ration cards. This study
highlights that this demographic is among the most impoverished, still struggling to meet one
of the basic needs: food, suggesting that the status of their other needs (clothing and shelter)
is dire as well. Aspirations for modern necessities (such as health, education, and recreation)
remain distant dreams for them.

S Gore (1958) ,states that In much of the literature discussing the "beggar" issue, the primary
focus has been on the beggar himself—his mindset, his attitudes, his vulnerabilities, his levels
of satisfaction or dissatisfaction, and so forth. This singular focus on the beggar is
understandable, particularly when the analysis is aimed at a specific branch of science that
studies the personality framework of the beggar as either an individual or a category.
Additionally, this perspective makes sense within the context of our usual thought patterns,
where we view the beggar as a nuisance, a socially undesirable person, a "problem," or a
deviant who should be subjected to the same treatment as any lawbreaker.

4. OBJECTIVE

This project is driven by the following objectives:

 To identify the demographic profile and personal backgrounds of beggars

 To analyze the major causes that lead individuals to take up begging

 To explore their living conditions, support systems, and survival strategies

 To assess public attitudes and common perceptions about beggars

 To propose practical, compassionate, and inclusive solutions for rehabilitation

Life of Beggars

 To promote awareness and empathy towards marginalized populations

5.RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design:
The research adopted a mixed-method approach that integrates both qualitative and
quantitative methods. This dual approach was chosen to ensure a comprehensive and multi-
layered understanding of the subject matter. The qualitative methods allowed for an in-depth
exploration of personal stories, emotional experiences, and socio-cultural dynamics, while the
quantitative methods enabled the collection of measurable data regarding demographic
variables, trends, and public perceptions. This combination enhances the richness of the
findings and helps in developing a balanced perspective on the life of beggars.
This project employed an exploratory and descriptive research design. Since the main aim
was to uncover the underlying causes of begging, identify patterns, and document personal
narratives, the research leaned heavily toward descriptive storytelling. Through case studies,
in-depth interviews, and thematic observations, the project aimed to capture the lived realities
of those engaged in begging.

Sampling Techniques:
The study used purposive and snowball sampling techniques to identify and recruit
participants. Purposive sampling ensured that individuals who were actively engaged in
begging or closely associated with them were selected. Snowball sampling helped in reaching
more participants through existing respondents who introduced other beggars willing to
participate.
The sample consisted of 50 beggars across three major areas—Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad.
Participants included men, women, children, and individuals with disabilities. Additionally,
30 members of the general public were surveyed to understand public attitudes toward
beggars. Diversity in terms of age, gender, location, and physical ability was considered
during the sampling to ensure that the findings reflect a broad spectrum of experiences.

Data Collection Methods: To ensure accurate and comprehensive data, a variety of methods
were employed:
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Life of Beggars
Life of Beggars

 Interviews: Semi-structured and open-ended interviews were conducted with beggars.

Questions covered areas such as personal history, causes of begging, health
conditions, experiences with law enforcement, support systems, and future
Life of Beggars

aspirations. Each interview lasted approximately 20 to 40 minutes and was conducted

in Hindi or the local dialect for ease of communication.
 Surveys: Structured questionnaires were distributed to the general public, including
shopkeepers, commuters, students, and homemakers. The survey aimed to capture
public perception, frequency of engagement with beggars, and opinions on whether
government policies are effective in addressing the issue.
 Participant Observation: Researchers spent several hours at each site observing the
behavior, interactions, and environment of the beggars. Field notes were taken to
document their routines, the spaces they occupy, and the nature of their interactions
with passersby and officials.
 Case Studies: Five individuals were chosen for detailed case studies. Their life
histories were recorded in depth, from early childhood to the present day. These
narratives provided a rich, contextual understanding of the socio-economic dynamics
that lead people to begging.
 Visual Documentation: Where appropriate and with consent, photographs were taken
to visually document the spaces and situations in which beggars live. These images
served as a supplementary record to support observations and interviews.

Ethical Considerations:
Ethical issues were given the highest importance throughout the project. The research was
guided by the principles of voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, and
respect. Before starting any interviews or observations, participants were briefed about the
purpose of the study, and their verbal consent was obtained.
No identifying information was collected, and data was anonymized during analysis.
Sensitive questions were asked with care, and participants were given the freedom to skip any
question they found uncomfortable. The research team underwent sensitivity training to
handle such interactions respectfully and responsibly.

Data Analysis:
The data collected through interviews, observations, and surveys were analyzed using both
qualitative and quantitative techniques:
 Qualitative Data: Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes, such as
reasons for begging, stigma, daily challenges, aspirations, and interaction with state
authorities. These themes were categorized and analyzed to build a coherent
understanding of beggars’ lived experiences.
 Quantitative Data: Descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency
distributions were used to summarize demographic details, causes of begging, types
of public responses, and access to support services. Graphs and tables were created to
visualize the trends more effectively.
 Triangulation: To improve validity, findings from different sources—interviews,
surveys, and observations—were cross-verified. This helped identify inconsistencies
and confirm key insights.

Limitations of the Study:

Like all research, this study has its limitations:
 Some participants were hesitant to share complete information due to fear of
judgment or legal consequences.
Life of Beggars

 Language barriers occasionally affected the depth of understanding, though

interpreters were used.
 Weather and urban congestion limited the time available for observation at certain
locations.
 The data may not represent beggars in rural areas or those engaged in hidden forms of
begging (e.g., through trafficking).
Despite these challenges, the methodology ensured that the study was inclusive, respectful,
and informative. By combining multiple data sources and respecting ethical boundaries, the
research was able to construct a detailed, accurate, and compassionate portrayal of the life of
beggars in urban India.

6.DATA DESCRIPTION:

This data was obtained through face-to-face interviews with individuals who live as beggars.
The aim was to understand their everyday experiences, obstacles, and personal histories. Our
original objective was to collect responses from 20 participants, but only 10 individuals
consented to take part. The other 10 declined to participate, with several requesting money in
return for their answers, which we could not offer due to ethical considerations and study
protocols.

1.Survey Scope:

 Targetted respondents:20 baggers

 Actual respondents :10 beggars
 Non respondence :10 beggars (declined to answer,asked for money)

2.Age Distribution:

 Age range: 25 to 65
 Average age:45 years
 Most beggars fall between 24 to 60

3.Daily income:

 Income range : 200rupees to 500 rupees per day

 Average daily income : 500
 Income sources include begging at metro stations ,religious places,and markets.

4.Meals Per Day:

 7 out of 10 individuals eat 1 meal per day
 3 get 2 meals per day (some through charity kitchens or leftover food)
 None consistently eat 3 full meals.

5.Shelter Access :

 6 have no shelter, sleeping on roadsides or footpaths

 2 stay in temporary shelters(under flyovers,outside temples
 2 live in permanent shelters
6.Health Status (Scale 1 to 5)
Life of Beggars

 Most individuals rated between 1-3,including poor health

 Common issues include weakness,untreated injuries and chronic diseases
 Only 1 individual reported a relatively good health score (4)

7.Education Level

 7 individuals have no formal education

 3 attended school till primary level

7.DISCUSSION AND FINDINGS

The findings from this research reveal a deeply nuanced, multifaceted, and emotional
portrayal of the life of beggars in urban India. Through interviews, observations, surveys, and
case studies, we have discovered the complex interplay of social, economic, psychological,
and systemic factors that lead individuals to resort to begging as a survival strategy. This
section discusses the key findings thematically while reflecting on their broader implications.

The Human Face of Begging

One of the most powerful insights from the study was the deeply human and emotional aspect
of each beggar’s story. Begging is often assumed to be a profession or a scam, but our
research dismantles this stereotype. For most participants, begging was the final outcome of a
long series of misfortunes—accidents, job loss, domestic abuse, health crises, and
abandonment. These individuals once had homes, families, and aspirations. Many still do.
Their entry into begging was rarely voluntary; it was forced by desperation, exclusion, and
helplessness.
For instance, Laxmi, a 38-year-old woman begging outside a metro station, shared how she
fled an abusive marriage with two small children and had no support from her family or the
state. Ravi, a 58-year-old man, lost both legs in a construction accident. He receives no
compensation or state pension and now begs outside a temple. These stories echo a common
narrative: a broken support system and failed safety nets.

Causes of Begging: A Web of Vulnerabilities

The research found multiple causes of begging, often overlapping and mutually reinforcing:
 Economic Hardship: The most cited reason for begging was lack of income or
employment. Many participants were previously employed in informal sectors—
construction, street vending, domestic help—and lost jobs due to injury, illness, or old
age. With no savings or support, begging became their only option.
 Disability and Chronic Illness: Physical disability was a major factor. Many
participants had untreated injuries or congenital disabilities. Without access to
assistive devices or rehabilitation, they found themselves excluded from the
Life of Beggars

workforce. Mental health issues, though harder to diagnose during fieldwork, were
visibly prevalent.
 Abandonment and Family Breakdown: A significant number of elderly participants
reported being abandoned by their children. Women, especially widows and
divorcees, were disproportionately affected, highlighting gendered vulnerabilities.
 Migration and Displacement: Many participants had migrated from rural areas due
to natural disasters, crop failure, or economic distress. Upon arriving in cities, they
failed to secure jobs due to lack of skills, references, or identification documents.

Daily Life: A Battle for Survival

Beggars live in constant insecurity. The streets are harsh, especially during monsoon and
winter seasons. They often sleep in public spaces—beneath flyovers, in railway stations, or
next to temples. Basic needs like clean water, toilets, and medical care are rarely available.
Many beggars are subject to verbal abuse and physical violence—from passersby, security
guards, or even municipal authorities. Women and children are particularly vulnerable to
harassment and exploitation. Despite these hardships, beggars form informal support systems.
They share food, look after each other’s belongings, and protect one another.
Some beggars organize themselves into loose groups, choosing locations based on religious
calendars, festivals, or the presence of tourists. Children are often used as emotional bait, but
our study did not encounter organized child begging rings directly, although participants
acknowledged their existence in certain areas.

Stigma and Public Perception

The stigma surrounding beggars is one of the most significant barriers to their rehabilitation.
Public surveys conducted during the study showed a mixed perception:
 Sympathy and Charity: Around 40% of people said they occasionally give money or
food, especially to the elderly, disabled, or children.
 Skepticism and Avoidance: About 30% believed that many beggars are part of
organized scams and thus refused to engage.
 Irritation and Fear: Roughly 20% found begging to be a nuisance and favored its
criminalization.
 Empathy and Reform: Only 10% expressed a willingness to support long-term
rehabilitation measures.
This data shows that while there is some empathy, misconceptions and mistrust dominate
public opinion. These attitudes are shaped by media narratives and isolated instances of
fraud, which overshadow the more common stories of suffering and need.

Policy Gaps and State Intervention

Despite existing welfare schemes, most beggars have no access to benefits such as pensions,
ration cards, health insurance, or shelters. The reasons include:
 Lack of documents like Aadhaar cards or proof of residence
 Bureaucratic red tape and corruption
 Ignorance about available schemes
 Ineligibility due to age or working status
NGOs and charitable institutions offer some relief through food drives, clothing, and health
camps. However, such efforts are sporadic and cannot substitute for structured policy.
Life of Beggars

Our research revealed that many shelters are unsafe, overcrowded, or have rigid entry
conditions that exclude beggars. For example, several shelters do not allow entry without
identity proof or prohibit substance users, thus excluding a large segment of homeless
individuals.

Aspirations and Dignity

Contrary to the assumption that beggars are lazy or complacent, most participants expressed a
desire to stop begging. They wanted dignity, stability, and the ability to earn. Many had skills
—knitting, cleaning, construction, food vending—that could be developed with proper
training.
Children expressed a desire to go to school. Women talked about starting small businesses,
while men wanted to work as helpers or drivers. The barrier was not lack of motivation, but
lack of opportunity.

Significance of Findings
The findings challenge the widespread stereotypes and provide a more empathetic and
accurate portrayal of beggars. They underscore the urgency of a multi-pronged response
involving:
 Legal reforms to decriminalize begging and protect homeless individuals
 Skill training and job creation tailored to the needs of beggars
 Health and mental care support, especially for women and the elderly
 Creation of safe shelters with flexible rules and entry points
 Public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote inclusion
This study also reaffirms that community engagement is critical. The problem of begging
cannot be solved solely by government action. Schools, businesses, residents’ associations,
and youth groups must get involved in rehabilitation efforts.

The Role of Community Connect Projects

One of the most important outcomes of this project has been the transformation it triggered in
the student researchers themselves. By stepping out of the classroom and interacting directly
with marginalized communities, students developed a deeper understanding of poverty,
resilience, and human dignity. These experiential learnings are essential for future leaders,
policymakers, and change-makers.
Community Connect projects, thus, play a vital role in fostering socially responsible
education. They create spaces where academic inquiry meets lived reality and compassion
translates into action. Through such projects, we build bridges between institutions and the
communities they serve.

Toward a Better Future

The road ahead is long, but change is possible. With the right mix of policy, community
involvement, and compassion, it is possible to uplift beggars from the streets and help them
reclaim their dignity. Solutions must be inclusive, context-specific, and grounded in empathy.
This project is a small but significant step in that direction. It hopes to inspire more research,
more engagement, and ultimately, more action.
Life of Beggars

7. CONCLUSIONS

The study of the life of beggars in the context of urban India has opened a profound and
essential dialogue around one of the most marginalized and overlooked communities in our
society. Through a comprehensive blend of interviews, observations, surveys, and lived
stories, this Community Connect project has illuminated not only the challenges faced by
beggars but also the inherent strength, resilience, and humanity that defines their existence.
Begging is not simply a manifestation of poverty—it is a complex social symptom that
reflects systemic failures in healthcare, education, employment, and social protection. The
individuals we interviewed were not defined by laziness or deceit, as often portrayed, but by
layers of adversity, including disability, abandonment, unemployment, mental illness, and
displacement. These are people who have endured intense hardship and continue to survive
through immense resilience. Their stories urge us to rethink our assumptions and to view
begging not as a crime or nuisance, but as a desperate act of survival that society must
address with sensitivity and care.
The research underscored several key findings: the multifactorial causes of begging, the lack
of access to state welfare schemes, the harsh living conditions, the public’s mixed attitudes,
and the potential of beggars to transform their lives if given support. Importantly, this study
reveals the deep aspirations that beggars hold—aspirations for dignity, shelter, education for
their children, and a chance to work. These aspirations, when met with systemic support, can
be the cornerstone of long-term rehabilitation.
The significance of these findings extends beyond academic inquiry. They point to a moral
and civic responsibility that society must shoulder. No person chooses to sleep on the street,
to go hungry, or to face abuse in public spaces. These conditions are often imposed upon
individuals due to a lack of choice, support, and opportunity. When a society fails to provide
for its most vulnerable, it compromises its own humanity and integrity.
Policy reforms must begin with the decriminalization of begging and the recognition of
beggars as individuals in need of care—not punishment. Governments must create flexible,
accessible shelters that accommodate people without identity documents or those struggling
with substance use. Welfare services must be made mobile and proactive, reaching out to the
homeless with empathy and assistance. Health and mental health services must be extended
to all, regardless of legal status or domicile.
Employment programs and skill development tailored specifically for the homeless and those
with limited literacy can open new pathways to independence. Vocational training in crafts,
construction, recycling, caregiving, and other accessible sectors can empower beggars to find
sustainable alternatives to street survival. Micro-credit programs and community enterprises
can also play a role in financial reintegration.
Education, too, must be central. Children living on the streets must be brought into the fold of
mainstream education through bridge courses, free midday meals, and counseling. Adult
literacy and education must be expanded to empower homeless adults to reclaim control over
their lives.
Equally important is changing public perception. Community awareness campaigns must
highlight the human stories behind begging, breaking down the stereotypes that fuel apathy
and stigma. Schools, colleges, and workplaces should conduct regular outreach and
sensitization drives to encourage empathy and voluntary action. The role of media must shift
from sensationalism to storytelling—capturing the reality of street life with respect and
responsibility.
Life of Beggars

Community Connect projects like this are instrumental in driving such change. They serve as
bridges between academic spaces and real-world social issues. Students who engage in
fieldwork, who hear stories first-hand, and who step into unfamiliar lives return transformed
—with a stronger sense of responsibility, awareness, and compassion. These projects plant
seeds for lifelong civic engagement and leadership grounded in empathy.
One of the most valuable lessons from this project is that solutions do not lie in charity alone
—they lie in justice, inclusion, and structural reform. Giving a coin to a beggar may alleviate
momentary suffering, but transforming their lives requires systemic change backed by
political will, social investment, and community solidarity. Real change begins when we
move from acts of charity to acts of advocacy and empowerment.
To conclude, this study is a call to action. It asks society to look closely, listen intently, and
act deliberately. It demands that we challenge the systems that create inequality and advocate
for the rights of those most marginalized. It urges policymakers, institutions, and
communities to work together in crafting humane, sustainable, and inclusive solutions. And it
reminds us that every beggar is a person—with a name, a story, and a dream.
This project may be academic in origin, but its heart is deeply human. It has opened a
window into a world we often ignore, and in doing so, it has reminded us that the true
measure of a society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members. May this study inspire
action, compassion, and a shared commitment to building a society where no one is forced to
beg for dignity, survival, or belonging.

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Life of Beggars

5.Kaushik,A.(2014),Rights of Children: A case study of child beggars at public places in

India .https://scholar.google.co.in/scholar?
start=20&q=beggars&hl=en&as_sdt=0,5#d=gs_qabs&t=1745226221529&u=%23p
%3DDF6lft3IEtAJ

Rahman,S.Y.(2021).The Beggar as a political symbol:An interactionist reading of the

endurance of anti-begging laws in India,51(2),206-225. https://scholar.google.co.in/scholar?
hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=beggars+india&oq=beggars#d=gs_qabs&t=1745227086054&u=
%23p%3DMZhuR_xgzSQJ

Gupta,M.(2022).Rights to education of child beggars in

India.https://scholar.google.co.in/scholar?
hl=en&as_sdt=0,5&qsp=1&q=child+beggars+india&qst=ib#d=gs_qabs&t=1745227457053
&u=%23p%3DVcbeTWk1iF8J

APPENDIX

TICK YES OR NO :

1.ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOMELESS ?

(YES/NO)

2.DO YOU SLEEP ON THE STREETS MOST NIGHTS?

(YES OR NO)

3.DO YOU HAVE ANY FAMILY YOU ARE IN CONTACT WITH ?

(YES OR NO)

4.HAVE YOU EVER HAD A JOB ?

(YES OR NO)

5.DO U FEEL SAFE WHERE YOU SLEEP?

(YES OR NO)
Life of Beggars

6.DO U EAT AT LEAST ONE MEAL EVERY DAY?

(YES OR NO)

7.HAVE YOU BEEN BEGGING FOR MORE THAN A YEAR?

(YES OR NO)

8.ARE YOU IN NEED OF MEDICAL ATTENTION RIGHT NOW?

(YES OR NO)

ANSWER THE FOLLOWING:

PERSONAL BACKGROUND :

1.HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING ON THE STREETS?

2.WHAT LED YOU TO THIS SITUATION?

3..HOW MANY FAMILY MEMBERS ARE THERE IN YOUR FAMILY ?

DAILY LIFE:

1.WHERE DO YOU USUALLY SLEEP ?

2.HOW DO YOU GET FOOD EACH DAY?

3.HOW MANY MEALS DO YOU USUALLY EAT IN A DAY?

4.WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR FOOD FROM?

EDUCATION:

1.DID YOU EVER GO TO SCHOOL?

2.DO YOU KNOW HOW TO READ AND WRITE?

3.WHAT GRADE DID YOU STUDY ?

HEALTH STATUS :

1.HOW IS YOUR OVERALL HEALTH RIGHT NOW?

2.HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY MEDICAL CARE RECENTLY?

3.DO YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL CONDITIONS OR ILLNESSES?

4.HAVE YOU EVER HAD TROUBLE ACCESSING HEALTHCARE SERVICES?

5.DO YOU FEEL SAFE WHEN SEEKING MEDICAL HELP?

Life of Beggars

6.HOW DO YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH ON A DAILY BASIS?

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