How some beggars in Lucknow earn 1 lakh monthly, out-earning mid-level professionals

The streets of Lucknow, a bustling city known for its rich culture and heritage, are home to a surprising number of beggars whose income might defy common expectations. Far from being destitute and helpless, many of these individuals have amassed more wealth than salaried workers, with some even maintaining comfortable lifestyles and substantial bank balances. This unexpected reality was unveiled during a detailed survey and campaign aimed at addressing the issue of begging in the city. Conducted by the District Urban Development Agency (DUDA) in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation and the Social Welfare Department, this study sought not only to understand the scale of begging but also to connect these individuals to social services and aid. This comprehensive report delves into the financial earnings of Lucknow's beggars, revealing both the scale and the intricacies of this urban phenomenon.


Background and survey details of Lucknow beggars

The survey in question was a joint effort by DUDA, the Municipal Corporation, and the Social Welfare Department. It identified a total of 5,312 beggars residing and operating in various parts of Lucknow. The campaign aimed to gather crucial demographic and economic data on these individuals, highlighting not only their financial status but also their backgrounds and motivations.

The overarching goal of this initiative was twofold: first, to assess the economic viability of begging as a source of income, and second, to integrate beggars into mainstream society by connecting them with government welfare programs. This included helping them secure important identification documents such as Aadhar cards, which are vital for accessing various government benefits.


How some beggars in Lucknow earn 1 lakh monthly

One of the most striking findings from the survey was the monthly earnings reported by some beggars. Contrary to popular belief, many individuals involved in begging make substantial amounts of money:

• Daily earnings: Pregnant women, who often attract more sympathy, reported daily earnings of up to Rs 3,000. Older individuals and young children typically earn between Rs 900 to Rs 2,000 per day.
• Monthly estimates: With consistent daily earnings, certain beggars can accumulate between Rs 80,000 to Rs 1,00,000 monthly, rivalling the income of mid-level professionals.
• Additional benefits: Besides monetary earnings, many beggars receive free food, clothing, and essential supplies from both generous passersby and charitable organisations. This additional support effectively reduces their living expenses, allowing them to save or redirect their cash income.

Begging patterns and demographics

The survey highlighted distinct patterns within the begging community:

• Predominance of women: Women, especially those who are pregnant or with young children, are among the highest earners. The psychological response of passersby to perceived vulnerability plays a significant role in their higher income.
• Mobility and strategy: A notable number of professional beggars travel from nearby regions such as Hardoi, Barabanki, Sitapur, and Rae Bareli to Lucknow, drawn by the city’s larger population and the opportunity to earn more.
• Generational begging: Some families have been involved in begging for generations, treating it not just as a last resort but as a stable means of income. This has contributed to a cultural normalisation of begging as a profession.

Economic impact on society

The economic implications of such high earnings are profound. Officials estimate that Lucknow’s residents collectively donate over Rs 63 lakh to beggars on a daily basis. This figure underscores a significant cash flow within the informal economy that often goes unnoticed.

This steady flow of donations points to a complex social and economic interaction. While on one hand, it demonstrates the generosity and compassionate nature of the public, on the other, it highlights the existence of an economy that, while informal, is both substantial and structured.


The social welfare response

The findings of the survey have led to an intensified focus on integrating beggars into the formal economic system. As part of the ongoing campaign:

• Form filling and Aadhaar registration: Efforts are being made to document the beggars and facilitate their access to government welfare programs.
• Education and rehabilitation: Social welfare organisations aim to offer skills training and job opportunities to shift the dependency away from begging.

According to Saurabh Tripathi, a project officer at DUDA who has studied the community closely, only a small proportion of the beggars – around 10% – engage in begging out of absolute necessity. The remaining are professionals who see begging as a viable occupation, capable of sustaining their livelihoods and sometimes supporting extended families.


A shift in perception: Begging as a profession

The data suggests a significant shift from the conventional image of begging as a last resort to its perception as a structured, if informal, profession. The presence of professional beggars, many of whom strategically position themselves in high-traffic areas and leverage their circumstances to maximise donations, indicates a level of planning and persistence.

For instance, one female beggar interviewed during the survey revealed that she has six children and often earns higher amounts when visibly pregnant, noting that donations increase substantially in such circumstances. This underscores the complex social psychology at play, where public empathy drives economic benefit.


Challenges and next steps

Despite the insights gained, addressing the root causes and consequences of organised begging presents challenges:

• Policy and legislation: Enforcing anti-begging laws while maintaining compassion for those in genuine need.
• Social integration: Balancing assistance with encouraging self-sufficiency and reducing dependency.
• Public awareness: Educating citizens about effective ways to help the needy without perpetuating the cycle of professional begging.