NMC Launches Citywide Beggar Survey to Create Data-Driven Social Support Network

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The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has initiated an extensive citywide survey targeting beggars, marking a crucial first step in a ₹1.32-crore social development mission focused on restoring dignity, structure, and opportunities for the city’s most vulnerable residents.Led by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Abhijeet Chaudhari and Deputy Commissioner (Social Development) Dr. Ranjana Ramkrishna Lade, NMC teams are systematically mapping beggars across key public areas such as temples, markets, bus stands, railway stations, and other public spaces.

Each individual encountered will be digitally registered, documenting details including age, health status, education, and skill potential to build a real-time social database.This survey will be conducted every six months, serving as the foundation for informed, data-driven welfare planning. Officials emphasized that the initiative aims to move beyond sporadic charity efforts by designing targeted interventions that support sustainable reintegration into society.

As part of the project, a new 150-capacity shelter for adult male beggars is in the works, featuring dormitories, a kitchen, counselling and medical rooms, CCTV surveillance, and round-the-clock facilities. Residents will receive essentials such as food, clothing, healthcare, and vocational training. NGOs will aid beneficiaries in obtaining Aadhaar cards, bank accounts, and other identity documents.

The program includes biometric attendance tracking and aims for an ambitious 80% reintegration rate within six months of enrollment.Officials make it clear that this initiative is not a crackdown but a compassionate, data-driven social reform designed to understand, support, and uplift Nagpur’s homeless population with accountability and care.