Lucknow: In India, it is common to encounter beggars asking for alms and living on the side of the roads. Some people offer money, while others pass by without any help, and there are people like Sharad Patel who strive to empower the beggars for self-reliance by providing them with employment opportunities.

Who is Sharad Patel?

Sharad Patel is currently pursuing a PhD in Social Studies at the Shakuntala Mishra Rehabilitation Government School. His research focuses on the plight of beggars. He lives with his father, three brothers, and a sister. His father works as a farmer in Hardoi. Sharad’s mother passed away in 2003. Since 2014, he has been committed to empower people from poor backgrounds. 

A life-changing experience

In the year 2013, he was pursuing Masters in Social Work from Lucknow University. One day, when he was on his way home, a 50-year-old man asked him for Rs 10. Sharad was deeply moved by the man’s helplessness. He took him to a food stall and bought him a healthy meal. The whole experience prompted Sharad to do something for the underprivileged communities. He decided to help them find employment to earn their own livelihood rather than relying on alms for sustenance. 

Shelter homes

In October 2014, Sharad, along with his friends Jaideep and Mahendra Pratap, launched the campaign of Bhikshavratti Mukti Abhiyan. Their goal was to mobilize people engaged in begging and bring them to Sharad Shelter Home. In 2019, he received support from the Municipal Corporation, and opened a shelter home. People staying at this place are required to fill out a form and then they are given counselling sessions. Sharad’s team also helps people overcome their alcohol addictions. 

Giving employment

Following counselling sessions, Sharad conducts skill mapping of the beggars to understand their previous occupations. He analyzes their skills and offers them small employment opportunities. To date, Sharad has facilitated the self-reliance of 450 beggars. 

Receiving support

Sharad’s work is donation based; it relies on public donations, with support from Loreto School. The school’s students generously contribute by sending lunch items and teachers provide raw materials. Furniture, computers, mattress cots, and other essentials at Sharad’s centre have been donated by Delhi-based organization Goonj. 

Commitment and hard work

Sharad shares an instance when he was invited to the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry, where his project was presented as ‘Badlav Pilot Project.’ However, despite the recognition, he did not receive any support. Unfortunately, due to corrupt practices within the Municipal Corporation, their project was awarded to another organization. Despite these setbacks, he remains determined and committed to his work.