Jharsuguda : SAATHII, the Programme Implementing Agency for implementation of Sweekrutit scheme, launched a tailoring training programme for transgender persons of Jharsuguda.
Nine transgender persons (transwomen) are to be trained for three months in the training unit by a master trainer. Post the training, SAATHII and District Administration will be linking them with financial institutions and markets for their sustainable livelihood.
Additionally, two transgender persons (transwomen) have been supported for beautician training and two transgender persons (one transwoman and one transman) under computer training courses. Also, initiatives are in the pipeline for linking interested transgender persons with employment opportunities and other skill development training.
Smt. Gopalaxmi Hota, District Social Security Officer, Jharsuguda inaugurated the tailoring training programme. On this occasion, three transgender persons received a Transgender Identity card.
Today, eight transgender persons from Jharsuguda were enrolled under Madhu Babu Pension Yojna (MBPY), a state-run pension scheme, which provides Rs.500 monthly pension to marginalised communities, including transgender. Shri Manoj Kumar Tandi, Executive Officer, Jharsuguda Municipality distributed the MBPY cards in the Municipality office.
Till date, 26 Transgender Identity Cards have been issued by the Collector and District Magistrate, nine transgender persons are linked with MBPY scheme, and one self-help group of transgender persons has been formed in the district.
The initiative is supported by the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SS&EPD) Department, Government of Odisha; and Jharsuguda District Administration under Sweekruti scheme. SAATHII has been working as the programme implementing agency for the implementation of Sweekruti scheme with the support of SS&EPD Department and Jharsuguda District Administration.
As part of an integrated initiative for transgender equality and justice, the SS&EPD department has been implementing the umbrella scheme ‘Sweekruti’ towards legal recognition of transgender persons’ gender identity, protection of transgender persons’ rights, and promoting welfare and inclusion of transgender persons’ via skill development, employment, livelihood options, linkages with skills and creating enabling environment in the state.
This is to be noted here that Gov’t of India has passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in December 2019 and formulated its rules in September 2020, and SS&EPD has been in the forefront towards implementation of the national laws with its state-specific schemes and programmes.
