Visakhapatnam Police Launch Jyotirgamaya Social Rehabilitation Drive
In an effort to combine policing with social rehabilitation, the Visakhapatnam City Police have launched Jyotirgamaya, a programme focused on reducing begging, generating livelihood opportunities for transgender persons, and helping former offenders rebuild their lives.
Police Commissioner and Additional District Magistrate Shankhabrata Bagchi said the initiative was designed to address urban social challenges through rehabilitation and community support.
Under the programme, police teams identified beggars at major traffic junctions and homeless persons living on footpaths across the city. Those without family support were shifted to shelter homes, while others were reunited with their families after verification. People requiring medical attention were referred to government hospitals.
Officials said shelter, food, and accommodation were provided to 491 persons. A total of 123 persons were reunited with their families, while 59 were treated at the Government Mental Hospital and 49 at King George Hospital.
The initiative also seeks to support transgender persons facing discrimination and a lack of stable employment. Police officials held meetings with members of the transgender community and their representatives to identify suitable job opportunities and self-employment options.
So far, 20 transgender persons have been provided jobs in the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation. Six others were assisted with bank loans to start small businesses such as pan shops and grocery stores. Efforts are being made to employ another 20 persons.
A tea and tiffin outlet was also opened at the Women Police Station premises on February 24, creating employment for 10 transgender persons.
Another component of the programme focuses on former offenders who often face stigma and limited job opportunities after release. Police identified reformed individuals and linked them with institutional finance for self-employment.
According to officials, 16 former offenders received Mudra loans to start small businesses, while nine others were assisted with loans to purchase auto-rickshaws.
Officials said the programme reflects an evolving model of policing that goes beyond law enforcement to include rehabilitation and social inclusion.