SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta held deliberations on the welfare of transgenders in the UT, aiming to integrate them into society and ensure their rights and opportunities.
The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary of Home, Principal Secretary of Finance, Commissioner Secretary of Social Welfare, Secretary of Health, a representative of the transgender community, and other concerned officers.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary attentively listened to the demands presented by the representative of the community. He assured them that the administration is dedicated to providing every possible assistance to enable the community members to become valuable members of society.
Dr Mehta directed the relevant departments to educate their staff about the special needs of transgenders, ensuring that they can access services smoothly. He advised them to ensure the equitable distribution of benefits, including self-employment opportunities, healthcare, and other welfare measures for all individuals in the transgender community.
He further encouraged all willing community members to come forward and avail themselves of the welfare initiatives. He requested the departments to compile a list of individuals interested in pursuing different enterprises so that the administration can assist them in a hassle-free manner.
The Chief Secretary urged them to actively participate in government social and economic programs, including activities related to PRI (Panchayati Raj Institutions).
It was revealed during the meeting that the transgender population in the UT exceeds 4,000 individuals. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has formulated the “SMILE – Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise” scheme, which includes the sub-scheme “Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons.”
The sub-scheme focuses on rehabilitation, provision of medical facilities and intervention, counseling, education, skill development, and economic linkages for transgender persons.
Furthermore, skill development training for transgender beneficiaries is also being conducted through PM-DAKSH, a skill development scheme of the Ministry. (GNS)
