Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab rescues 31 begging children in Mohali under ‘Jeevanjyot’ Campaign: Dr Baljit Kaur
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, December 21, 2025: Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is taking sustained and effective measures to eradicate the social evil of child begging from the state.
Sharing this information, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said that 31 children engaged in begging were rescued in district Mohali over the past three days by regional social security teams, marking a significant success of the Jeevanjyot campaign.
Providing further details, Dr Baljit Kaur said that a total of 68 children involved in begging have been rescued from Mohali since August 17, making it the leading district in Punjab in terms of child rescue operations.
The Minister informed that after document verification by the District Child Welfare Committee, three children have been reunited with their parents, while the remaining 28 children have been placed in child care institutions until the verification process is completed. She said that proper arrangements for their shelter, food and safety have been ensured.
Dr Baljit Kaur further stated that 807 children involved in begging have been rescued across Punjab so far and connected with rehabilitation services, reflecting the Mann government’s child-centric and compassionate governance.
She clarified that the Jeevanjyot campaign is not limited to rescue operations alone but focuses on rehabilitation, education and a secure future for rescued children. Priority is being given to health check-ups, counselling, educational support and family rehabilitation to ensure that no child is pushed back into begging.
Issuing a stern warning, the Cabinet Minister said that strict legal action will be taken against any individual or gang involved in child begging or trafficking.
Appealing to the public, Dr Baljit Kaur urged citizens not to give alms to children seen begging and instead report such cases to Child Helpline Number 1098, so that every child can be linked to education and lead a life of dignity.