Maharashtra: Transgender Policy gets a nod in Cabinet Meeting

Maharashtra State Transgender Policy 2024 was approved in the cabinet meeting. The meeting was presided over by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Social Justice and Special Assistance Department, Disabled Welfare Department, Other Backward and Bahujan Welfare Department, Skills and Entrepreneurship Department, Industries, Power and Labor Department, Water Supply and Sanitation Department, Tribal Development Department, Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Department.

On Monday, March 11, the Maharashtra government cleared a comprehensive policy for the transgender community that suggests reforms in spheres such as education and healthcare facilities and envisages equal rights to transgenders who often face prejudice and discrimination. 

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“Financial support can be provided to those who need assistance for gender-affirming surgeries. Government hospitals may offer free gender-affirming surgeries,” the 28-page policy reads.

The policy also suggests extending pension eligibility to transgender individuals if the surviving family member of a deceased government employee belongs to this community. It also suggests establishing independent toilets for transgenders at all public places and making available a platform for transgender individuals to present their cultural talents.