Chandigarh, September 17, 2025: Project JIWANJYOT 2.0, a flagship initiative of the Punjab Government, is changing young lives by rescuing children from begging and ensuring them a safe, dignified, and hopeful future.
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that in a recent operation near a Gurdwara Sahib in Amritsar district, 15 children were rescued from begging, shifted to safe shelter homes, and given immediate rehabilitation support.
She noted that public response has been very encouraging, with more citizens reporting incidents of child begging near religious places, markets, bus stands, and traffic signals. Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government is committed to providing every child in Punjab with education, protection, and dignity.
“Children belong in schools, not on the streets. Project JIWANJYOT 2.0 is a major step towards building a Punjab where no child is forced to beg,” Dr. Kaur emphasized.
Ahead of the annual Jor Mela in Kapurthala, a dedicated rescue team has been deployed to ensure no child is compelled to beg during the festival and that rescued children receive proper care and rehabilitation.
Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Dr. Kaur said the government is preparing a comprehensive plan that combines awareness campaigns, rescue drives, and rehabilitation programs during the festive season.
So far, 311 children have been rescued under the project and reintegrated into society through education, nutrition, counselling, and rehabilitation services.
Dr. Kaur urged citizens to call the Child Helpline 1098 instead of offering alms, stressing that the initiative is not just about rescue operations but about creating a safer and brighter future for every child through strong community participation.
