In Indore, the begging business has proven to be a lucrative venture, with some individuals earning significant amounts of money in a short period of time. One woman, who was caught by the administration for begging at Bhawrasla Square/Luv Kush Square, confessed to earning over Rs 2.5 lakh in just 45 days. This impressive income was achieved with zero investment and 45 days of work. It is worth noting that this income was earned even outside of vacation time, as many residents and tourists travel from Indore to Ujjain, passing through the square. The potential for even higher earnings during summer vacations and national events is significant, as more families commute through the intersection.
The Begging Business in Indore
Begging is considered the biggest and easiest business in Central India, with Indore being home to more than seven thousand beggars. Surprisingly, these beggars often make more money than 98.7% of the population. The income disparity is evident when considering the latest income tax data released by the Indian government. Out of approximately 3.25 crore taxpayers in India, only around 5 lakh individuals have an annual income exceeding 20 lakh rupees, which accounts for roughly 1.3% of the total taxpayers.
Begging in Indore: A Family Affair
During a recent rescue operation, a family of beggars was discovered at the Lavkush intersection in Indore. The family consisted of a husband, wife, and their three children, all of whom were involved in begging. The couple had left two children with their grandparents in a village in Rajasthan, while the remaining three children begged alongside them at the intersection The woman’s sister and brother-in-law were also found to be involved in begging.
The Begging Strategy
The family strategically chose the Lavkush intersection as their base for begging. This intersection sees a high number of devotees passing through, particularly after the construction of Mahakal Lok in Ujjain. Additionally, the intersection is on the route to the Super Corridor, making it a prime location for begging. The family took advantage of the religious emotions of those going to or returning from Mahakal, often receiving alms from them. The scarcity of police presence at the intersection further facilitated their activities.
The Financial Status of the Begging Family
The beggar woman, who was caught and interrogated, revealed that she had earned Rs 30,000 to Rs 35,000 in just 15 days. During special festivals and the wedding season, her fortnightly earnings could reach up to Rs 50,000. The family’s accumulated wealth is evident in their ownership of land, smartphones, electronics, a home, and cars. They have sent Rs 1 lakh to their village and deposited Rs 50,000 in a fixed deposit account in the name of their children, using the remaining Rs 50,000 for their expenses.
The Scale of Begging in Indore
During the rescue operation, it was revealed that around 6,000 to 7,000 people beg in the city of Indore, with approximately 3,500 of them being children. These beggars can be categorized into three groups: those who have no one at home, those who have come to Indore from outside specifically to beg, and those who are part of begging gangs. The gang members can be found not only at intersections but also at temples, Chhappan Dukan, and other marketplaces.
In conclusion, the begging business in Indore has proven to be highly profitable for some individuals, with significant amounts of money being earned in a short period of time. The scale of begging in the city is substantial, with thousands of people, including children, involved in this activity. The administration is taking measures to address the issue and make Indore a beggar-free city.