AP Govt comes up with scheme for beggars to stay away from Pushkaralu

A new scheme has been introduced by the Andhra Pradesh Government to ensure beggars stay away from the Godavari Pushkhar Ghats for the ease of pilgrims. As a compensation during the 12-days Maha Pushkaralu, the beggars were offered Rs 5,000 each along with free food. However, trouble arised when fake beggars turned up in front of the Godavari Pushkaram Organising Committee (GPOC).

According to the rules, the beggars without Ration Cards and non-beneficiaries of Government's welfare schemes are eligible for the scheme. The officials after thoroughly checking their fingerprints have identified 200 beggars who will be paid Rs 5,000 at the end of Godavari Pushkaralu on condition that they don't cause any hindrance at the Ghats.

Earlier, the beggar reimbursement scheme was implemented by Chandrababu Naidu in 2000 where Beggars were shifted from Hyderabad to rehabilitation centre during US President Bill Clinton's visit to AP.