Sir: The issue of beggary is a matter of great shame and concern. Beggars are seen at public places, railway stations, near temples and mosques. Begging involves neither physical labour nor mental exertion. Begging flourishes because people tend to be generous. Innocent people are forced into begging by anti-social elements. Some beggars earn more than most of the low paid persons. They get used to a life of leisure. One cannot escape their pleadings for alms. Sometimes it seems as if begging has become a part of an organised crime. Some of the beggars appear to be quite healthy and stout. It seems that they have found begging to be the most convenient method of earning money. The authorities should put a ban on begging so that the pursuers and perpetrators of begging should be dealt with an iron hand. Priority should be given to the eradication of extreme poverty. The physically handicapped beggars should be taken care of. Banning of begging is a positive step and will help counter the menace of beggars in the society. Many people consider begging as a source of money without doing any work. Beggars who are willing to work should be trained according to their ability, health and talent. The ban on begging will help curb the trend of forcing children into this trade. The government should provide necessary vocational training to rehabilitate them. The expenses incurred should be borne by the government. Healthy beggars should be forced to work for their livelihood. People should stop giving alms to beggars. If begging is not checked immediately, it will turn out to be a big social evil in the near future. VINOD C DIXIT Ahmedabad, India