Jharkhand’s Chief Secretary, Alka Tiwari, has directed a state-wide survey focused on the transgender population, aimed at improving access to government welfare programs. This decision was made during the Jharkhand Transgender Welfare Board meeting held recently. The survey intends to gather information about the district-wise distribution of transgenders, understand their needs, and assess their preferences. This information will directly inform the allocation of resources and support the integration of transgenders into the available government schemes. The meeting acknowledged that many transgenders are hesitant to openly identify themselves, preventing them from accessing essential services, including identification, reservation benefits, pensions, health cards, and safe housing. To mitigate this, the Chief Secretary has instructed the rapid establishment of district-level committees, headed by deputy commissioners. A “Transgender Support Unit” will also be established by the Board. Based on the 2011 census, India has a total transgender population of 4,87,803, with 13,463 in Jharkhand. The government runs several welfare programs for this community, in which the Transgender Welfare Board provides support. The Board assists various departments in creating and executing schemes related to transgenders. Present at the Board meeting were the Home Secretary, the Social Welfare, Women & Child Development Secretary, the Finance Secretary, and the Rural Development Secretary, among other officials.
