Where once innocent children stood with bowls on the streets and squares of Punjab, today they are moving forward with books, dreams, and dignity. This change has been made possible by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s visionary thinking and “Project Jeevanjyot,” a historic step towards realizing the dream of a ‘Rangla Punjab.’
The Punjab government launched this landmark project in July 2024. Its first phase ran until June 2025. During this period, 753 raid operations were conducted, and 367 children were rescued from begging. Of these, 350 children were safely returned to their parents, and 17 children were placed in child care institutions. Approximately 183 children were enrolled in schools, 30 were linked to sponsorship programs, and 8 young children were sent to Anganwadis. These figures prove that the government did not just provide temporary relief but took a major step to permanently integrate these children into the mainstream of society.
Following the success of the first phase, “Project Jeevanjyot 2.0” was initiated in July 2025. Within just one month, by August 25, 2025, 523 raids were conducted, and 279 children were rescued. Of these, 137 children were sent back to their families on the same day, while 142 were placed in child care institutions. This time, DNA samples of 15 children were also taken to ensure their correct identification. This shows that the government is adopting modern technology and solid policy measures for the safety of children.
The most significant aspect of this policy is that the Punjab government has also identified the root of the problem—poverty, drug abuse, and the exploitation of children brought in from other states. By connecting these families with employment schemes, nutrition programs, and education, not only are the children being given a new life, but the entire family is being made self-sufficient. This is not just a rescue operation but a 360-degree model that includes rescue, rehabilitation, education, healthcare, and making families self-reliant.
Now, the Punjab government has also started taking strict measures during festivals and large events. Special rescue teams have been deployed for the annual Jor Mela in Kapurthala, who will be on continuous duty so that no child is forced to beg. Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said “Children’s childhood should be in schools, not on the streets. Project Jeevanjyot 2.0 is a big step towards the Punjab of our dreams.”
So far, 311 children have been rehabilitated and integrated into the mainstream with education, nutrition, counseling, and social support. The public’s cooperation has also been a huge part of this success, as people are now reporting children who are begging on Child Helpline 1098.
Additionally, the Punjab government is set to implement a new and improved legal framework to prevent child begging, which will present a model for the entire country. This law will take strict action against those who exploit children and will secure every child’s right to education, healthcare, and dignity. This effort by the Punjab government is not only stopping children from begging but is also presenting an ideal model for the entire country. It shows that with the right policies, public support, and strong political will, real change can be brought about in society.
