EDUCATION NOT ALMS
At its heart, the program aims to break the cycle of begging by keeping children away from such environments and inspiring their families to embrace education. Guided by the motto “Bhiksha Nahi, Shiksha Do” (Education, Not Alms), we strive to create a future where every child has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.
COLLABORATING FOR CHANGE
In January 2014, Aasraa Trust partnered with Childline and the Dehradun District Administration to tackle the issue of children forced to beg in the city center. Many of these children were brought by their mothers or aunts, who supervised them to ensure they were actively begging.
These children endure deplorable living conditions – hungry, unclean, often ill, and exposed to harsh weather. They are subjected to beatings if they fail to bring in enough money. With no access to education or skills, their future is often limited to a life of begging or substance abuse as a means of escape.
RESCUE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER
RESCUE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER
Aasraa’s outreach team identifies these vulnerable children and brings them into its care. Through the Street Smart program, we provide non-formal education and introduce them to a structured, nurturing learning environment. The program ignites a love for learning and equips them for integration into mainstream education.
Aasraa’s Anti-Begging Campaign has transformed the lives of hundreds of children, offering them access to education, safety, and the hope of a brighter future. Each child rescued from the streets represents a step toward breaking the generational cycle of poverty and empowering them to build a life of dignity and opportunity.
JOINT INITIATIVE WITH
LOCAL ADMINISTRATION
JOINT INITIATIVE WITH LOCAL ADMINISTRATION
While progress has been made, the issue of child begging remains a significant challenge. In a major step toward addressing this, Aasraa became a partner in a groundbreaking initiative launched by the District Magistrate of Dehradun, Mr. Savin Bansal, with the support of Hon. Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami in 2024.
3 anti-begging patrolling vehicles have been deployed across the city to rescue children from street begging and guide them towards education and rehabilitation.
As part of this initiative, Aasraa is operating the Intensive Care Centre at Sadhu Ram Inter College, offering rescued children safety, care, and the opportunity to transition into a life of learning and dignity.
10
years
400
children impacted annually
