High-earning beggar-turned-mayor not ready to chuck panhandling!

Melbourne, Oct 1 (ANI): An Indian beggar, who has been elected the mayor of a small town, has no intention of giving up panhandling because he makes more money from his earlier profession.

Dharmveer Bhoora says that he earns so much that he can subsidise council projects in Khaikheri, northern India.

The 56-year-old rakes in over 700 dollars on a good week.

"The money I make from begging provides for my family and sometimes the whole town," the Daily Telegraph quoted him as saying.

"I am responsible now for looking after the development of the village and part of the money I make out of begging will also be utilised for undertaking developmental projects in the village.

"I am very grateful for every small bit of money that anyone gives to me while begging and I am sure it will make some people feel good that they are not just helping me and my family but also my whole village," he added. (ANI)