Street Baggers and Their Remedial Factors in Punjab: A Case Study of District Faisalabad

Abstract

This study's main goal was to evaluate the socioeconomic elements that contribute to street baggers' acts of begging as well as the preventative measures in Punjab: a case study of District Faisalabad. This study's main goal was to investigate the causes of these beggars in Punjab as well as the things that can help them. The goal of the project is to investigate the underlying reasons of street begging, the effects it has on both individuals and communities, and to suggest practical solutions to deal with this complicated problem. Only the baggers in the Faisalabad District were included in the study. The study had an interactive design, a subjective approach, and an all-encompassing nature. The investigation employed a qualitative methodology. A case study was used as the research design in this study. The baggers of the Faisalabad district made up the study's population. Qualitative and quantitative data collection was done. Semi-structured interviews were created for the purpose of gathering data following the completion of a literature review. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to choose the sample. Interviews were conducted with eighteen baggers. The qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis technique. The precise words of the answers were written for every question. The overarching themes that arose from the participants' comments were developed. On the basis of the examination of the qualitative data, conclusions were derived. It was determined that the Punjabi baggers had low incomes, destitution, joblessness, and low levels of education, mental health problems, and diverse family and societal backgrounds. The reasons behind street begging are primarily related to differences in socioeconomic status. One of the main contributing factors to someone becoming homeless is their vulnerability to poverty, unemployment, and limited access to education. Furthermore, the difficulties faced by street beggars are made worse by mental health conditions, addiction, and family dissolutions, underscoring the necessity for a thorough comprehension of the interrelated elements that propel these phenomena. The ramifications of street begging go beyond the short-term financial difficulties encountered by individuals. The mental and emotional health of beggars is negatively impacted by the increased levels of social stigma and discrimination they frequently face. Youngsters who engage in street begging are especially vulnerable to long-term harm to their physical and mental growth. Understanding these effects is essential to developing successful therapies that meet the needs of beggars on a whole. In proposing remedial factors, the research advocates for a multifaceted approach that encompasses short-term relief and long-term sustainable solutions. Immediate interventions include the provision of shelters, access to healthcare, and meals to meet the urgent needs of street beggars. However, the focus extends beyond mere assistance to rehabilitation and empowerment. It was suggested that the Government should provide education, holistic rehabilitation, community involvement & advocacy, vocational trainings, gender-sensitive interventions.

 Key words: Street bagger, remedial factors, Economic Factors, Social Dynamics, Health Issues, Educational Disparities, Culture and Societal Norms, Political and Economic Instability, Exploitation and Trafficking, Comprehensive Social Programs, Community Engagement, Initiatives, Economic Development.