The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): In its commitment to building an inclusive ‘Viksit Bharat’ or Developed India, the Government of India has taken significant steps towards mainstreaming transgender persons. Launched on February 12, 2021, the Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) scheme, with its sub-scheme for the welfare of transgender persons, reflects this commitment.
This sub-scheme focuses on comprehensive rehabilitation and includes dedicated components for healthcare, skill development, shelter homes, protection cells, welfare boards, and trans-safe toilets. The National Portal for Transgender Persons, launched in November 2020, is a pivotal initiative, providing a valid identity certificate for transgender individuals, which is recognized for updating details in AADHAR and educational certificates. As of now, 16,463 transgender identity certificates have been issued through this portal.
Recognizing the need for protection due to discrimination, violence, and atrocities faced by transgender persons, the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019 was enacted. The SMILE scheme further reinforces this by establishing Transgender Protection Cells at the state and district levels and Transgender Welfare Boards at the state level.
Shelter homes, known as ‘Garima Greh,’ have been set up to provide a safe residential facility for destitute transgender persons. These homes offer free lodging, food, counseling, and skills training. Currently, 12 Garima Greh are operational across the country, and there are plans to establish at least one in every State/UT.
The inspiring stories of transgender individuals like Saburi Yadav, Deepaka Yadav, Krishi Tandi, and others from Chhattisgarh, who found refuge in Raipur Garima Greh and have since gained employment in various sectors, underline the scheme’s impact. The integration of transgender persons into the police force and private security firms exemplifies the success of these initiatives.
Additionally, the Ministry has partnered with the National Health Authority to provide specialized Ayushman Bharat TG Plus cards for transgender persons, covering over 50 health benefit services, including gender re-assignment and cosmetic treatments.
Efforts are underway to include dedicated toilets for transgender persons in Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) policy guidelines and to develop specialized skill development training programs by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The National Institute of Social Defence is also finalizing demand-driven skill development activities for transgender persons.
These comprehensive measures aim not just at the positive inclusion of transgender persons in the national workforce but also at encouraging self-employment. The overarching goal is to ensure their dignified and harmonious coexistence in society, contributing to the nation’s journey towards self-reliance and a developed India.
