Jharkhand Announces Statewide Survey for Transgender Welfare

The Jharkhand government, under the direction of Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, will conduct a comprehensive survey of the transgender population across the state. This initiative aims to improve the implementation of government welfare programs for the transgender community. The announcement was made during a meeting of the Jharkhand Transgender Welfare Board held recently. The survey’s purpose is to determine the number of transgenders in each district, understand their specific needs and requirements, and ascertain their preferences. This data is considered essential for providing appropriate financial support and other resources to the transgender community and for connecting them with relevant government schemes. The meeting also highlighted the difficulties faced by transgenders in openly identifying themselves, which often leads to denial of services like identity cards, reservation benefits, pension plans, health cards, and access to safe housing. To address this, the Chief Secretary has ordered the swift formation of district-level committees, to be chaired by the Deputy Commissioners. Additionally, the Board will establish a “Transgender Support Unit” to deal with issues impacting transgenders. The 2011 census recorded a total of 4,87,803 transgenders across India, with 13,463 residing in Jharkhand. The Transgender Welfare Board collaborates with various government departments to formulate and implement schemes aimed at the welfare of transgenders. Senior officials attended the board meeting, including the Home Secretary, the Secretary of Social Welfare, and the Finance Secretary.